Hitting the ground running! How robotic simulation training shapes hospitality graduates’ market readiness?

This paper evaluates the effect of robotic simulation training on the entry-level technological competency of hospitality graduates in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Drawing on social cognition and human capital theories, this paper uses a quantitative design. It collects data from 548 graduates of hospitality technology colleges in Egypt, Morocco, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia. Findings revealed that robotic simulation training significantly enhanced the acquisition of technological skills and positively affected labor market entry. Further, technological skill acquisition partially mediated the relationship between robotic simulation training and labor market entry. Nevertheless, graduate engagement with robotic simulation training and perceived industry demand for technological skills did not moderate the proposed relationships. This paper contributes to the existing body of knowledge by providing components of simulation technologies to address skills gaps in the hospitality industry.