The WSC Lab works closely with the Targeted Research Training (TRT) Program on cutting-edge research, education, and outreach activities to address the unique issues facing the hospitality and tourism industry. Learn more at the official TRT website.
TRT is directed by Dr. Mindy Shoss with input from advisory board members, and workers/management from the hospitality industry participating in research and events. Their combined expertise spans the sectors of industry, government, academia, and labor. Learn more about TRT members here.
The Aims of the TRT Program:
Click on each of our core tenets to learn more:
1. Conduct research to improve improve health, safety, and well-being in the hospitality industry:
Hospitality and tourism workers are an underserved population with a wide and unusual range of risks in their jobs. TRT works to develop and assess interventions to address their unique needs.
2. Put research in the hands of the people that can best use it:
TRT conducts community outreach and educational events for industry, labor, students, and researchers in order to unite research and practice.
3. Equip students with skills to make positive impacts in the industry.
Students in the TRT program have the opportunity to learn not only from leaders in industry/labor, but also collaborate with researchers from UCF, USF, Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, and University of Puerto-Rico through Sunshine ERC.
TRT events include presentations, discussion panels, and guest speakers to discuss our research findings. Learn about past events and upcoming events here.
TRT research topics include service robots, AI and automation, and job insecurity. Learn more about TRT research publications here.
TRT is part of Sunshine ERC, an Educational Research Center funded by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH). Sunshine ERC seeks to transform workplace quality of life through transdisciplinary education, research and practice, and industry partnerships. Learn more about Sunshine ERC here.