Hospitality Students Deliver Innovative Solutions to Industry Challenges

In the wake of the pandemic's impact on the hospitality industry, operators have faced unprecedented challenges while navigating a rapid business resurgence. Staffing shortages resulting from turnover and retention issues have added to the industry's uphill battle, compounded by the fact that hospitality experiences cannot be replicated online, an option favoured by many workers in the post-pandemic era. However, determined to address these pressing issues head-on, Hospitality - Hotel and Restaurant Operations Management students embarked on a four-month journey during their final semester to develop forward-thinking initiatives.

Working in groups, students delved into real-life cases armed with strategic business models, extensive research, critical thinking abilities, and teamwork skills. They set out to devise feasible solutions and realistic implementation plans tailored to the unique challenges faced by industry partners.

The program extends its heartfelt gratitude to the following organizations and their representatives for their contributions to this collaborative endeavour:

• Toronto Airport Marriott Hotel, represented by General Manager, Kevin Schmidt  and Director of Human Resources, Kelly Yuill
• Sheraton Gateway Hotel, represented by Director of Human Resources, Laureen Massie and Director of Operations Philippa Akyeampong
• Ontario Restaurant, Hotel and Motel Association (ORHMA), represented by Workforce Initiatives and Industry Relations Vice-President Fatima Finnegan

Amidst competition, a select group of winning teams emerged, supported by the guidance of instructor Wendy Burgess and the enthusiasm of their industry partners.

These teams were granted the opportunity to present their innovative solutions to the esteemed hotel representatives:

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