ABOUT AHMET HACIKARA

With over 20 years of experience in the hospitality industry and a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management, I specialize in leveraging advanced technologies to drive innovation in hospitality and tourism. My research focuses on artificial intelligence (AI), human-robot interactions (HRI), and technology adoption at the individual and organizational levels. I had the privilege of working for leading hospitality organizations such as Marriott International, InterContinental Hotels, Hyatt Hotels, Omni Hotels, and Kempinski Hotels. Many aspects of the industry, such as room operations, food and beverage operations, events and entertainment, banquet operations, catering operations, marketing and sales, hospitality information systems, revenue management, managerial accounting, and talent recruitment and development, have been integral parts of my career. This professional foundation now informs my teaching and research, allowing me to connectreal-world hospitality operationswithacademic insights on technological innovation and customer service at the University of South Alabama. I believe in nurturing an inclusive and dynamic classroom, where engagement, industry relevance, and a genuine enthusiasm for the subject matter are at the core of my teaching philosophy.