| Yhteenveto: | This research contributes to understanding how the limitations of Thailand’s English Language Teaching (ELT) affect professionals in the tourism industry. Previous studies suggest that the current English curriculum relies too heavily on the Anglophone English model — an outdated approach, given that English is now primarily used for communication among non-native speakers. Furthermore, grammatical knowledge is prioritized over practical communication skills, which are essential for effectively serving international tourists. Therefore, examining how these limitations affect Thai professionals in the tourism industry is important for identifying areas of improvement in English language education. The participants in this study work in various sectors within the tourism industry, including hospitality, aviation, and travel agencies. Despite their different roles, they shared similar experiences, and two major challenges that they encountered in their careers were identified: difficulties in communicating with foreign tourists and barriers to personal career growth and income. Tourism workers struggle to understand diverse English accents and lack industry-specific vocabulary. Additionally, pronunciation influenced by Thai, incorporating Thai cultural elements in speech, and overly formal language contribute to communication ineffectiveness. Apart from communication with the tourists, ELT limitations further affect career advancement and financial opportunities. While professional writing and presentation skills are crucial for managerial roles, Thai students primarily learn academic writing, which is less applicable in the workplace. Additionally, the lack of interactive learning in classrooms restricts the development of strong speaking skills, putting those who can afford international schools or specialized programs with intensive English training at a significant advantage in career progression. Effective communication also directly impacts hotel staff earnings, as guest satisfaction increases the likelihood of higher service charges, tips, and performance-based bonuses. The results of this research provide valuable insights into how Thailand’s ELT can be improved to better prepare tourism professionals to serve foreign tourists. Furthermore, these findings are also beneficial for professionals in other industries where English proficiency is essential for career advancement and communication.
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