Team
Michael Scime
President
Michael Scime is the President of SPI and a lifelong force in the themed entertainment fabrication industry. A graduate of the University of Florida with a degree in Finance, he brings a unique blend of strategic business insight and hands-on expertise in creative fabrication and project execution.
Michael’s roots in the industry run deep. From a young age, he worked alongside his family, hand-painting graphics and applying finishes to some of the most iconic attractions in theme park history — many of which continue to enchant visitors today. These early experiences didn’t just teach him the craft; they ignited a passion for storytelling, a deep respect for precision, and a lifelong commitment to building immersive environments that leave a lasting impression.
In 2004, Michael assumed leadership of SPI and began a new chapter of growth and innovation. Under his direction, the company evolved from a small specialty graphics shop into a nationally recognized leader in themed design and fabrication. His vision and drive have propelled SPI to become a trusted partner on some of the most complex and high-profile projects in the global entertainment industry. He also personally holds the company’s Florida Certified General Contractor license (CGC1535474) and Florida Certified Electrical Specialty Contractor license (ES1200268), underscoring his commitment to quality, safety, and operational excellence at every level.
Throughout this transformation, Michael has remained deeply committed to American manufacturing and to delivering uncompromising
quality through local craftsmanship.
Beyond the shop floor, Michael is a dedicated philanthropist and active supporter of the communities that have shaped his life and career. He actively supports a variety of charitable and community initiatives, including educational, recreational, and local development programs. His leadership is guided by a belief that business should not only build great products — it should build opportunity, connection, and lasting impact.
Brittany Gacsy
Executive Director
Brittany Gacsy is the Executive Director of SPI Themed Construction, where she leads strategic project development and oversees the integration of design and fabrication across a wide range of immersive environments. With a career rooted in themed entertainment and architectural fabrication, she brings a rare blend of creative insight and technical execution to every project.
Brittany began her professional journey at Walt Disney Imagineering, where she specialized in the design and fabrication of environmental graphics and wayfinding systems across Walt Disney World. Her work emphasized precision, storytelling, and the seamless integration of guest experience within the built environment — principles that continue to guide her approach at SPI.
At SPI, Brittany applies her deep fabrication knowledge to complex, large-scale themed construction projects, working closely with cross-disciplinary teams to deliver high-impact, detail-driven experiences. Her expertise spans the full project lifecycle, from concept development and prototyping to material specification and final execution.
In addition to her role at SPI, Brittany is an Adjunct Lecturer at the University of Florida’s CityLab-Orlando, where she teaches graduate courses on themed environment integration and fabrication. She also serves on the Welding Technology Advisory Board at Southern Technical College, helping to advance fabrication education and support the next generation of skilled tradespeople.
Brittany’s leadership reflects a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and elevating the role of fabrication as both an artistic and technical discipline within the themed entertainment industry.
William Lopez
Scenic Paint Manager | Master Artisan
William Lopez is SPI’s Scenic Paint Manager and widely regarded as one of the most talented scenic artists in the industry today. A Cuban-born craftsman with a lifelong dedication to artistry, William brings unmatched precision, texture, and emotion to every surface he touches—from intricate faux finishes to large-scale themed environments.
Born and raised in Pinar del Río, Cuba, William began painting at just five years old, using art as a way to process and transcend the challenges of childhood asthma. While recovering in hospitals, he discovered the healing power of creativity—a passion that would define his life and legacy. He formally studied artisan craftsmanship in Cuba and spent years hand-painting crafts and tourist pieces in the country’s bustling tourism sector. His journey later took him to Michigan, where he worked as an artisan painter at the legendary Baker Furniture, refining his skills in high-end finishes before joining SPI in April of 2002.
Since arriving at SPI, William has elevated the scenic department with both his artistry and leadership. His expertise in patinas, woodgraining, aging, and custom finishes brings stories to life with authenticity and soul. William deeply values the craftsmanship and opportunities he’s found through his work—and he meets every project with courage, humility, and a relentless pursuit of beauty.
Beyond the booth, William’s greatest pride is inspiring others, including his son-in-love, who has joined the scenic trade under William’s mentorship—extending a legacy built on resilience, passion, and paint.
Carlos Hernandez
Shop Manager
Carlos Hernandez is the Shop Manager at SPI, where he oversees daily operations, guides a multidisciplinary team, and ensures that every project meets the company’s rigorous standards for precision, quality, and craftsmanship. A seasoned industry veteran, Carlos brings more than two decades of hands-on experience and leadership to SPI’s self-performing fabrication facility.
Originally from Puerto Rico, Carlos began his career in the signage world at Orlando Sign, where he worked as an installer on the original Universal Studios parking lot graphics in 1999. From there, he traveled across the U.S., honing his skills on-site and developing a deep understanding of installation logistics, client coordination, and the realities of bringing complex signage systems to life.
Carlos joined SPI in 2001 as a helper and steadily worked his way up—learning the craft from the ground up. He became a router operator, then a wood fabricator, and in 2014, was promoted to Shop Supervisor. Today, as Shop Manager, Carlos is the quiet engine of the fabrication floor: a calming, steady presence whose methodical leadership and attention to detail help drive every project to successful completion.
Carlos is a proud family man whose personal values mirror SPI’s culture of integrity, teamwork, and grit. From his humble beginnings as a maintenance worker to leading a world-class themed fabrication shop, Carlos’s story is one of perseverance, pride, and professionalism.
Cory Karges
Fabrication & Technical Design Lead
With over a decade of experience in themed construction and specialty signage, Cory Karges is a seasoned expert in creating bold, high-impact visual elements. Since 2015, he has applied his deep fabrication expertise to a wide range of projects—from monumental architectural signage to intricate illuminated displays—consistently delivering work that is both innovative and precise.
Cory’s technical proficiencies span manufacturing, CNC machining, and custom fabrication, with specialized knowledge in plastics processing. He excels in the integration of LED and neon lighting systems, large-format monitor displays, and animated mechanical components. His advanced 3D modeling abilities are complemented by a working fluency in additive manufacturing technologies.
Beyond design, Cory brings practical experience in structural, mechanical, and electrical engineering. This holistic approach allows him to anticipate challenges and implement effective, detail-oriented solutions that meet rigorous standards for quality and safety.
Originally from upstate New York, Cory is known for his grounded work ethic, collaborative spirit, and commitment to pushing creative and technical boundaries—all while ensuring results that perform as impressively as they look
Daniel “Moose” Scime
Senior Creative & Fabrication Specialist
Daniel “Moose” Scime brings over 30 years of industry experience to SPI, where his deep-rooted knowledge of signage, fabrication, and graphics continues to shape some of the most iconic visual experiences in themed entertainment. With an A.S. in Graphic Design from Valencia College, Moose pairs design fundamentals with real-world fabrication insight—blending creativity, precision, and practicality in every project.
An industry leader in vinyl specification and application, Moose is also highly proficient in 3D modeling, lighting integration, and UL 48-certified sign systems. His hands-on knowledge of materials, finishes, and custom installations makes him an invaluable resource throughout all phases of production. Moose has served as Concept Creative Lead for high-profile projects such as the operational graphics and marquee kiosks for Celestial Park at Universal’s EPIC Universe.
A longtime part of the Scime family legacy in themed fabrication, Moose brings the same passion, discipline, and collaborative spirit that defines SPI’s culture.
Outside of work, he is currently Vice President of the Orlando Margarita Society—a charitable organization he has been apart of for more than 15 years with a dedication to supporting underprivileged & needy children in the Central Florida area during the holiday season.
Whether he’s developing a one-of-a-kind marquee or leading the charge on scenic graphic execution, Moose is known for his technical acumen, problem-solving approach, and generous mentorship within the shop and beyond.
Victoria Scime
Office Manager | Team Caretaker | Dog Pack Leader | Resident Ray of Sunshine
Victoria Scime is the heart of SPI’s front office—balancing the books, the energy, and the occasional batch of fresh-baked treats. With over 10 years of experience in banking, she brings order to the chaos of billing, invoicing, and day-to-day operations, all while making sure the team is taken care of behind the scenes. She’s the first to notice when someone needs a smile, a snack, or a shoulder to cry on—and she’s quietly made it her mission to keep the people of SPI feeling human in a world full of hard hats and deadlines.
Goofy but shy, Victoria has a soft spot for silly jokes, shop dogs, and surprise cupcakes. As the undisputed pack leader of the SPI dogs, she keeps tails wagging and moods lifted with her gentle presence and calming energy. And yes—she also happens to be married to the boss, Mike Scime… which means she deserves hazard pay (but would never ask for it).
Victoria may prefer to stay out of the spotlight, but her care, humor, and quiet leadership bring warmth and heart to a business built on steel, creativity, and grit.
The Pawduction Team
