PROFESSIONAL INDUSTRY EXPERIENCES AND COMPETENCIES OF HOSPITALITY AND TOURISM EDUCATORS: BASIS FOR A PROPOSED WORK IMMERSION PROGRAM

This study evaluated the competencies of faculty members in Hospitality and Tourism Management (HTM) across the Food and Beverage (F&B), Lodging, Recreation, and Travel and Tourism sectors. Data from 23 respondents were collected using a structured questionnaire based on a four-point Likert scale. Results showed that the majority of faculty members held Master's degrees (52.17%) and had industry experience (52.17%). Faculty were found to be highly competent across all sectors, with F&B competency in menu design and operations rated the highest (3.71), followed by lodging recruitment and property support (3.69), program monitoring in Recreation (3.61), and budget management in Travel and Tourism (3.62). Overall, HTM educators demonstrated strong capabilities in delivering industry-relevant knowledge, ensuring students are prepared for the evolving hospitality and tourism industries.