معرفی
Ahmet Hacikara, Ph.D. is an Assistant Professor of Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of South Alabama’s College of Education and Professional Studies (CEPS). He holds a B.S. in Hospitality and Tourism Management from Virginia Tech (2004), an MSBA in Business Administration (2018), and a Ph.D. in Hospitality Management from the University of Central Florida’s Rosen College (2024).
Research Focus: Hacikara’s work integrates technology adoption in hospitality and tourism, emphasizing artificial intelligence (AI), human-robot interactions (HRI), and customer experience innovation. His interdisciplinary approach addresses how advancements in IT, big data, and evolving customer expectations shape industry practices.
Teaching: He prioritizes engagement and innovation, leveraging emerging technologies to foster problem-solving and critical thinking. Courses taught include Food & Beverage Service Management, Global Leadership, Cruise Operations Management, Hospitality Information Systems, and Career Planning.
Career Background: Before academia, Hacikara held executive roles at Marriott International, Hyatt Hotels, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Kempinski Hotels, and Omni Hotels & Resorts. He later transitioned to teaching ESL to disadvantaged students and served as a Teaching Associate at UCF’s Rosen College.
Professional Contributions: Active in industry mentoring and academic development, his career spans leadership in multinational hospitality organizations and a focus on cultural diversity in professional environments.
