Stream: Monza
Time: 12:15 - 13:00
AI tools are evolving quickly, and terms like Skills and MCP are becoming increasingly common. But what do they actually mean, and when should you use one instead of the other? This session provides a practical comparison of Skills and the Model Context Protocol (MCP), explaining the role each plays in an AI solution. Through real-world examples with CICS, we'll explore their strengths, limitations, and where they complement each other. Whether you're experimenting with AI or looking to build production-ready solutions, you'll leave with a clearer understanding of how these technologies fit together.
There is currently no attachment for AI: Skills & MCP: What's the Difference?
Tom Baskerville leads integration for the CICS AI team, delivering enhancements such as the CICS MCP Server in CICS TS 6.3 and driving AI innovation across the platform. He previously spent eight years advancing CICS modernisation, delivering key capabilities including JCICSX, a Red Hat‑certified Ansible collection for CMCI‑based and standalone CICS region provisioning, enhancements to CICS Explorer, and the CICS GraphQL API Server. His work focuses on modernising CICS through automation, APIs, and AI. Tom is an active member of the WAVEZ GS UK Working Group and helps organise WAVEZ events throughout the year, including the WAVEZ Spring Event conference.
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