Katie Anderson is the Operations Manager of Fun-Plex, home of Nebraska’s largest Ride and Water Park.
Tell us a little about your business. – We have family favorite rides like go-karts, bumper boats and the tilt-a-whirl and an 18-hole mini golf course. Our waterpark includes the Motion Ocean Wave Pool, twin five story Typhoon Waterslides, Lazy River, Kiddie Pool, and the brand new Makana Splash Aqua Playground. We are open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and are a great destination for families, corporate picnic, and birthday parties.
How did you get started in the business? – My father started Fun-Plex in 1979 and we have been family owned and operated even since. I began handing out mini golf balls as a teenager and worked up from there.
What has been your most important achievement professionally? – In my first year as Operations Manager I was presented with the Peony Park Lifetime Achievement for Excellence in Amusement Park Management.
Tell us a little about your family. – Most of my family was born and raised in Omaha and many have worked at Fun-Plex at some point in their lives. Currently I work with over ten people in my family, and a hand full of “lifers” who have become just like family.
What do you see as one of the biggest turning points in your life? – I took some time away from the park after college and I lived in Colorado for a few years and in the Czech Republic for a few years. I think it was important to get out of town for a while and I discovered a passion for the outdoors and traveling.
What is your favorite thing to do on a day off? – Days off in the summer are few and far between, so I usually take full advantage and get out to a concert or a short camping trip. During the winter I am able to travel more extensively and try to take an overseas trip at least once a year.
What are you the most proud of? – Right now I am proud that I’m back in school to get my MBA. I’ve been out of school for seven years, so it has been a huge accomplishment to get started again.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received? – “If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.” This one has saved me a lot of time, and probably money too!
If you could have a super power, what would it be? – To control the weather. Sunny and 94° every day!
What local non-profit organization(s) are you passionate about or involved with, and are there any special reasons why? – This year Fun-Plex is teaming up with Midlands Mentoring Partnership to offer free admission for mentors and youth. We love this organization for the support they give to groups like Big Brothers Big Sisters and Girls Inc. It is important that every youth has someone who they know cares about them and they can turn to for advice. We are so happy to provide a place where this important relationship can grow.
What is your favorite book or the last good book you read? – I’m in an audio book phase now. I have listened to To Kill A Mockingbird, The Godfather, and Gone Girl recently.
What is your favorite movie? – Mean Girls.
What is your favorite TV show? – Friends.
What is your favorite local restaurant? – Maria’s in Ralston.
If our readers would like to contact you, how should they do so? – At (402) 331-8436, via email at katieanderson@fun-plex.com, or visit www.fun-plex.com.