During HITEC 2024, Hospitality Net's Terence Ronson interviewed Ian Millar, Senior Lecturer of Information Technology at EHL Hospitality Business School. Millar shared his insights on the state of hospitality education, the integration of technology in the industry, and the challenges and opportunities faced by educational institutions. This interview is part of our HITEC 2024 series, where industry leaders provide their perspectives on the future of hospitality technology.

Introduction and Walkthrough of HITEC 2024

Ian Millar begins by sharing his initial impressions of HITEC 2024. He highlights the presence of familiar exhibitors and the growing focus on mobile technology, which he believes is crucial for enhancing the digital customer journey in hospitality. Despite progress, he notes that the industry is still in its infancy regarding mobile adoption.

State of Hospitality Education

Millar discusses the current state of hospitality education, emphasizing the diversity in educational levels, from apprenticeship programs to upper management training. He expresses concern about the closure of vocational and apprentice-level hospitality programs, stressing the importance of these foundational courses for the industry's future.

Challenges in Teaching Hospitality Technology

Millar explains the challenges faced by educational institutions in staying current with technological advancements. He points out that the slow and structured nature of education makes it difficult to quickly adapt curricula to include emerging technologies like AI. The lengthy process of developing and accrediting new courses further complicates this effort.

Comparison with Other Educational Fields

When asked about the adaptability of hospitality education compared to other fields, Millar asserts that the challenge is widespread across all educational sectors. He explains that large institutions, like hospitality schools, often operate like cruise ships—slow to change direction due to their size and the need to maintain rigorous standards.

Innovative Teaching Methods

Millar shares his approach to integrating modern technology into his courses. He frequently invites guest speakers from leading tech companies, such as Google, Amazon, and Microsoft, to provide students with insights into the latest technological advancements. This method helps bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical, real-world applications.

The Role of Innovation Labs

Millar discusses the role of innovation labs at EHL Hospitality Business School. These labs serve as incubators for hospitality-focused startups and as test environments for new technologies. Millar emphasizes the importance of providing students with hands-on experience with the latest innovations, preparing them for future industry demands.

Addressing Employment Shortages

Millar addresses the significant issue of employment shortages in the hospitality industry. He reveals that a substantial percentage of hospitality graduates do not enter the industry, opting for careers in finance and other fields with better working conditions and pay. Millar suggests that improving the work environment and career prospects in hospitality is crucial for attracting and retaining talent.

Leadership and Technology in Hospitality

Millar argues that the primary issue with technology in hospitality is not the technology itself but the leadership and mindset within the industry. He points out that many hotel boards lack tech-savvy members, hindering strategic decision-making. Millar believes that integrating technology into the core operations and leadership of hospitality organizations is essential for future success.

Conclusion and Parting Thoughts

The interview concludes with Millar sharing his thoughts on the importance of getting the basics right in hospitality operations before integrating advanced technologies. He emphasizes that a solid foundation in operations and a forward-thinking mindset are crucial for leveraging technology effectively. Terence Ronson thanks Millar for his insights and presents him with a gift, acknowledging his contributions to the industry.

This interview is part of Hospitality Net's HITEC 2024 series, showcasing the latest thought leadership in the hospitality sector.

 

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