Stream: Monaco
Time: 10:00 - 10:45
Session Overview The IBM Z ecosystem is experiencing a growing skills shortage, while many aspiring professionals struggle to find affordable, structured, and industry-relevant training. This session presents a practical framework for designing and operating a vocational mainframe academy that prepares students for enterprise careers through a combination of classroom learning, hands-on laboratories, mentoring, and project-based training. Technologies and Topics Covered The session will discuss how a comprehensive IBM Z curriculum was designed and delivered, covering: • IBM Z fundamentals and enterprise computing • TSO/ISPF and the z/OS development environment • JCL and batch processing • COBOL application development • VSAM file management • Db2 for z/OS • CICS transaction processing • UTILITY PROGRAMS • Practical development workflows and debugging techniques The emphasis will be on building job-ready skills rather than simply completing technical modules. Demonstrations and Practical Examples Attendees will see examples of how a vocational training environment can be organised, including: • Designing an end-to-end learning pathway from beginner to enterprise-ready professional • Structuring practical laboratory exercises that reinforce classroom concepts • Creating affordable remote laboratory environments that maximise student access • Using real-world assignments and mini-projects to simulate enterprise development environments • Measuring student progress through practical assessments rather than theory alone Lessons Learned Drawing on real implementation experience, the session will share lessons learned from building and delivering a vocational mainframe programme, including: • Common challenges faced by new learners entering the IBM Z ecosystem • Strategies for improving student engagement and retention • Balancing legacy technologies with modern learning expectations • Making enterprise-grade training accessible without compromising quality • Preparing students for professional roles through practical experience and mentoring Who Should Attend This session is intended for: • Universities and educational institutions • Corporate learning and development teams • Mainframe managers and technical leaders • Community organisations supporting IBM Z education • Anyone interested in expanding the enterprise computing talent pipeline Key Takeaways After attending this session, participants will be able to: • Understand the key components of a successful vocational mainframe academy • Design a practical, industry-aligned IBM Z curriculum • Develop affordable and scalable hands-on learning environments • Apply proven techniques to improve student engagement and learning outcomes • Adapt these best practices to support their own organisation's talent development initiatives Conclusion This session is not about promoting a training programme—it is about sharing a practical, proven framework that organisations, universities, and educators can adapt to develop the next generation of IBM Z professionals. Attendees will leave with actionable ideas, lessons learned, and a roadmap for building sustainable mainframe talent pipelines that meet the evolving needs of the enterprise computing industry.
There is currently no attachment for Building the Next Generation of Mainframe Talent: Lessons from Creating a Vocational ZOS Academy
With over 35 years of professional experience in enterprise computing, I have dedicated more than three decades to IBM Z mainframe technologies, specializing in application development on z/OS using COBOL and related enterprise technologies. Throughout my career, I have developed extensive expertise in designing, developing, and delivering enterprise applications, while also mentoring and training the next generation of mainframe professionals. My teaching experience spans a comprehensive range of IBM Z technologies, including z/OS, TSO/ISPF, JCL, COBOL, VSAM, Db2, CICS, DFSORT, and File Manager, with a strong emphasis on practical, industry-oriented learning. Having witnessed the evolution of enterprise computing over four decades, I am passionate about addressing the growing mainframe skills gap by making quality education accessible, affordable, and aligned with industry needs. I believe that one of the most meaningful ways to contribute to our profession is to give back to the community by sharing the knowledge, experience, and lessons that others have generously shared with me throughout my career.
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