IBM Expert Radio

This episode features Scott Piersall, a lecturer at the University of North Florida's School of Computing. Scott's journey into academia is anything but traditional—after high school, he had no plans to attend college. But after years of experience in the industry, he discovered a passion for teaching and is now pursuing a Ph.D. with a focus on machine learning. The lifelong learning takeaway? Keep your mind and options open—to new ideas, new directions, and new possibilities. Scott encourages his students to be bold, reminding them: “The answer is always No until you ask.” His message to mainframe professionals thinking about moving into academia is just as clear: “Don't hesitate! Go for it—it's fun and deeply rewarding!” 

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, businesses need platforms that don't just keep up—they need ones that drive them forward. IBM Z and LinuxONE rise to this challenge by combining open-source flexibility with enterprise-grade performance, security, and resiliency. By leveraging open technology solutions, these platforms are empowering industries around the world to innovate at scale.One of the most exciting developments in this space is the collaboration between Canonical—the company behind Ubuntu—and IBM. Together, they're bringing the power of Ubuntu to IBM Z and LinuxONE, unlocking new opportunities from traditional strongholds like banking and finance to emerging sectors.In this episode you will you'll gain fresh perspectives and real-world examples of how this partnership is driving success across industries, helping organizations modernize with agility and confidence by leveraging their current investment. Stay ConnectedBe part of the conversation! Join the ISV Ecosystem User Group to explore the latest blogs, events, videos, and more from IBM Z partners and innovators.And don't forget to subscribe to z/Action!Each month, we spotlight some of the world's most innovative companies and how they're driving success with IBM Z.

About the PodcastThe road from junior professional to Subject Matter Expert (SME) is a long but rewarding journey, paved with learning, mentorship, and strategic career moves. This podcast serves as a guidepost for early-career professionals, tackling key challenges such as finding mentors, gaining visibility, and building expertise. Through engaging discussions and actionable strategies, we aim to help individuals stay on course and accelerate their journey on the road to becoming SMEs.Join us on our first episode of the New to Z: Road to SME Podcast, where Joe shares his insights and expertise on the latest developments in mainframe innovation.Joe Winchester is a Senior Technical Staff Manager and Master Inventor at IBM, known for his leadership in open-source mainframe innovation. A core contributor to Zowe since 2019, he serves on its Technical Steering Committee and helps guide the project's evolution and community engagement. In 2024, he helped launch Zowe 3.0 and the IBMz AIOps Corner podcast, spotlighting voices across the mainframe industry. As an Open Mainframe Project Ambassador, Joe brings topics like quantum-safe encryption and resilience to global open-source and academic forums.

In this episode we talk to George Chudyk lecturer of Computer Science in Bergen Community College, New Jersey. His best advice is, “If you think of something you want to do, if you envision a solution to a problem, just do it! If you get 50 errors, fix the first two, run it again, fix the 2nd, 3rd, run it again and just try it out”! Listen to a lecturer who disputes textbooks and will tell you why! Resources Lecture 6 - Discover IBM Z Xplore Hear from Monica Siegel and George Chudyk a lecturer in Bergen Community College as they discuss the benefits of IBM Z Xplore and how to leverage this learning platform to teach about mainframes in the classroom. Listen to an educator with hands-on experience! Visit the IBM Z Educator Hub User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for IBM Z educators to find the latest communications, news and events, as well as collaborate and network. Check out technical lecture's, blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here Subscribe to “The z/Education!” Podcast. Each month we talk to IBM Z Educators from around the world on their success stories, journeys and their best practices. 

Interskill Learning is the most awarded, widely delivered, and IBM-credentialed mainframe workforce training solution in the industry. It addresses critical mainframe skills gaps and empowers teams with scalable, cost-effective, on-demand access to an extensive, multimodal training resource-all year round.Join us as we explore how to build a strong skills pipeline and sustain the vitality of the mainframe workforce. Hear from the exceptional CEO of Interskill Learning- Darren Surch, as he reveals how targeted training can help leaders and developers overcome challenges and drive a new era of mainframe innovation. Whether you are a seasoned tech professional or simply curious, this episode is your roadmap to future-proofing your mainframe workforce!ResourcesTo learn more about Interskill Learning, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Dr. David Woolbright Emeritus Professor of Computer Science talks about his passion for teaching programming languages and how he made learning assembler interesting and fun!! His best advice “Be excited about what you're teaching and, if you're excited, the students will be excited!”. The biggest surprise reveal is that in his retirement he is a writer of mystery novels!  Listen to this fascinating episode about his journey as an educator and an author! Resources Dr. David Woolbright's - The Punctilious Programmer Visit the IBM Z Educator Hub User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for IBM Z educators to find the latest communications, news and events, as well as collaborate and network. Check out technical lecture's, blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join hereSubscribe to “The z/Education!” Podcast. Each month we talk to IBM Z Educators from around the world on their success stories, journeys and their best practices. 

The Digital Operational Resilience Act (DORA) is officially in effect, bringing significant changes to how banks and financial institutions manage ICT risks and ensure operational resilience. In this video, industry experts Monica Sasso of Red Hat, PJ Di Giammarino of JWG, and Anne Leslie from IBM discuss some of the critical concepts banks need to know to stay compliant and secure in this new regulatory landscape.   Discover: Why DORA matters for the financial sector  Key requirements and obligations for banks  Practical tips to strengthen your risk management framework  If you're responsible for compliance, cybersecurity, or operational risk in your organization, this video is critical. Get ahead of the curve and make sure your bank is DORA-ready.  Join the IBM Financial Services Cloud Council and Forum Community to learn, share, debate, and solve the latest challenges in financial services at:  http://ibm.biz/fsccandf  Testing Operational Resilience white paper: https://bit.ly/4gprsRO 

Virtel Web Suite is a powerful and highly scalable solution designed to extend the life and usability of legacy mainframe business applications—while cutting costs and simplifying infrastructure.According to Sebastian Dewar, CTO of Virtel, “It empowers application developers to create a modern web user interface (UI) experience with a no-code, drag-and-drop tool that requires no prior knowledge of web technologies. This approach not only simplifies the modernization process but also significantly reduces costs and saves valuable time, as seen with many of our customers.”Virtel's Screen Redesigner takes modernization a step further by focusing on enhancing the user experience without requiring a complete overhaul of the application. It offers a fresh, modern look and feel, providing developers with a seamless and intuitive experience.As Dewar further explains, “Mainframes are the backbone of critical business applications, and they must be seamlessly integrated into the broader IT ecosystem. APIs are the key to achieving this integration to stay relevant in today's digital landscape.”Tune in to discover how cloud, security, and artificial intelligence are driving the future of mainframe modernization—according to the experts at Virtel.ResourcesTo learn more about Virtel, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

“Get ready for the real world! One of the best practices in teaching is to bring in real world examples, think about the context not so much straight theory”. A must not miss, fascinating talk with Dr. Alex Citurs on the January episode of “The z/Education! Podcast”. 

In this episode, Systemware CEO Frankie Basso shares insights on developing the next generation of mainframe talent. With over four decades of experience in creating content management services for the IBM Z platform, Systemware is dedicated to cultivating a new wave of professionals. Basso emphasizes the critical importance of establishing a skills pipeline and explains how they introduce new recruits to the potential of the mainframe. He also highlights the key skills they prioritize during training. Tune in to learn how Systemware guides recruits in understanding the mainframe's capabilities, what essential skills they focus on first, and how their development progresses – including the one aspect that often surprises new mainframe professionals.Resources Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here. Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z. 

Episode 4: Our guest for this episode of The z/Education! Podcast is Professor LeRoy Hardy, a lecturer at the University of North Texas, College of Business. As an alumnus of UNT, he's thrilled to teach IBM Z at his alma mater. One of his best-known practices is incorporating IBM Z Xplore into his teaching. According to Professor Hardy, "IBM Z Xplore is an excellent opportunity for students to explore various aspects of mainframe technology, enjoy the learning process, and spark their curiosity to dive deeper." Don't miss this insightful episode! 

“Customers are demanding faster time-to-market, and faster responses.  They want more flexibility in the way that they can process payments,” says Ray Caradine, ACI Worldwide's product director. ACI has been helping clients manage payments workloads on the mainframe for decades, so they know where the ecosystem is heading. “We see IBM Z in the context of resilience and availability,” Caradine continues. “It's actually running in a data center where people can see it and touch it and control it.” More than ever, up-time, reliability, and security make the mainframe an ideal payments platform. Listen to learn how AI will analyze payments data to detect fraud and support custom-usage models -- and how Linux will help meet regulatory requirements and enable hybrid solutions.  Resources Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here. Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z. 

Our guest is Dr Cameron Seay a mainframe thought leader and adjunct professor at East Carolina University. He has been in mainframes since he saw the platform in 2005. He is a “mainframer” at heart!  who is passionate about teaching. He loves the community and says, anybody that learns mainframe has a competitive advantage. You don't want to miss this episode of z/Education Podcast!

“IBM Z is the only platform we run on,” says Bob Biggs, an engineer with Altera Digital Health. “It's always up, and it's always available.”  When one of their clients moved to a Web-based platform, it was vital that Altera's HealthQuest medical-records solution continue to access data from the secure, reliable mainframe. Altera responded with a faster, more-efficient solution utilizing TCIP/IP and CICS that provides near-instantaneous communication between server and mainframe.  Listen for a deep technical dive into how Altera implemented this solution for their client – and how Linux containers might soon increase data speeds from milliseconds to nanoseconds.ResourcesTo learn more about Altera, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

“Teaching is not just about delivering content, but it's also about understanding and responding to the student needs!" Listen to this inspiring conversation with Germanas Samrickis an IBM Z educator from Lithuania as he passionately shares about how education can have profound impact on a person's life and shaping their future and broadening the horizons. What about “Butter Chicken and Snowboarding”? Well.... you don't want to miss this episode of z/Education Podcast!

A conversation with IBM Z educators around the world about their journeys, success stories, best practices and more!

The mainframe data landscape isn't pretty. “It's a mess,” admits Jesse Sedler, 1touch's product VP.  “It's sprawled. It's all over the place. You have sensitive data on the mainframe that folks want to unlock and start using. They could be using that data in all sorts of places. A single record could be modified and copied and changed, and a thousand copies could be made.” 1touch is in the business of bringing order to data sprawl, making sure the right people have access to the right data at the right time through contextual visibility. Mainframe Security Posture Management equips organizations with a dashboard that details where critical data resides, and what options are available to control access. Listen to learn how MSPM and ContextualAI can help security experts and RACF administrators maintain a compliance posture that simplifies the audit process – and how up-front data discipline prevents costly rework of AI models.ResourcesTo learn more about 1touch, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Data volumes are always increasing, and that can cause bottlenecks. “Typically, our customers come to us because they run into a wall,” says Alebra Technologies CTO Bill Yeager. “They have a lot of data that they need to move within a certain window. Pretty soon, you've run out of time.” Alebra creates more time for mainframe customers. Bypassing traditional TC/IP, its solution enables rapid data access without affecting production. “We offloaded as much as possible from z/OS, so the processor could do the least amount of work to retrieve the data,” Yeager continues.  “With our Parallel Data Mover, a customer can access large amounts of data at any time of the day without impacting production work.” Listen to learn how faster data distribution improves security and compliance -- crucial advantages as AI becomes more important for enterprises across every domain, including on-prem systems, hybrid cloud, and off-prem cloud.ResourcesTo learn more about Alebra, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Tool-sprawl is a major headache. “When you look at the amount of automation tools out there, it's literally hundreds of different ones,” says Stonebranch CTO Peter Baljet.  “You can't manage each one individually. Service, Orchestration, and Automation Platforms can do the automation themselves, with everything on that one back plane, so you don't have to watch every tool individually.” Stonebranch brings a quarter-century of workload automation experience to SOAP, helping clients integrate the z/OS platform into the hybrid landscape. Listen to learn how SOAP is empowering business users as citizen automators, and where generative AI might be taking workload automation. ResourcesTo learn more about Stonebranch, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Get ready to certify in IBM Cloud Financial Services specialty - the quick and easy way. Tune in to our one-hour webinar for a speedy Flash Jam exam preparation session with tips and tricks on the certification exam. Our host, Natalie Brooks Powell from the IBM Center for Cloud Training, will be joined by FS Cloud expert Dave Kliemann.What to expect: An explanation of the 45-question, 75-minute certification examFlashcard questions that may appear on the examAn on-demand replay for more study and exam prepLearn more about becoming certified when you tune in.  If you haven't already, register for the "Study with Me" program beginning April 8 to review study tips and sample certification questions in a daily blog series.Click here to view this episode on YouTubeClick here to check out our YouTube channel for more episodes

Data-Centric Security: Protecting the Mainframe“Data-centric security follows two principles,” explains Felix Rosbach, Comforte's product VP. “Protect the data as early as possible, and then deprotect only when it's absolutely necessary.” Comforte has been safeguarding mainframe data for more than 20 years. As threats grow, so does the challenge of effective cybersecurity. “Companies want to share data on the mainframe,” Rosbach continues. “They want to use it, they want to analyze it, they want to work with it, which results in a situation where you need to not only consider security on the mainframe itself, but also systems where the data is moving.” Listen as we explore how encryption and tokenization can form an effective perimeter for mainframe data without limiting access -- including the looming impact of AI technology. ResourcesTo learn more about Comforte, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

SummaryGet ready to certify as an IBM Cloud Technical Advocate--the quick and easy way. Tune in to our one-hour upcoming webinar for a speedy Flash Jam exam prep with tips and tricks on the certification exam.An explanation of the 66-question, 90-minute certificationApproximately 60 flashcard questions that may appear on the examWatch the replay for more study and exam prepResourcesFor the online Tech Advocate training, enroll here if you're an IBM employee, and follow this link for others. Learn more about becoming certified when you tune in. If you haven't already, you can register for the “Study with Me” program beginning February 12 here: https://airtable.com/app3GP77Pwsk4H0dl/shrZF3cfkPFrkze8SKey Speaker: Natalie Brooks Powell, Strategy & Go to Market Leader, IBM Center for Cloud Training

“Time is ticking once you receive an instant payment,” says Thorsten Völkel, CEO of PPI AG. “You only have ten seconds for the round trip, sending the instant payment to the receiving bank and getting back a notification, and then sending back a notification to your customer.” Speed is about to become very important in the European Union, where instant payments will become mandatory this year.  The IBM Z platform is uniquely suited for rapidly processing such transaction volumes.  PPI AG is a market leader in payment solutions; their instant-payments engine is helping institutions who depend upon IBM Z to comply with the new EU regulations.  Listen for a deep dive into instant payments on IBM Z, from market and regulatory requirements to technical solutions -- including design, infrastructure, cryptography, and AI.ResourcesTo learn more about PPI AG, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Data belongs on the mainframe, and new modernization tools are making it easier to give the right people access. “Everyone has an analyst who's not a technical user that needs to get to the data,” explains Greg Weinheimer, product manager with Cloud Software Group's ibi business unit.  “We take care of that piece, and they can just worry about analyzing the data.” Given that 70% of the world's data resides on mainframes, connectivity is a critical consideration for hybrid environments – and much more.  As ibi product marketing manager Hannah Knox says, “Mainframes are vital for the future of our world.”  Listen and learn how keeping data on the IBM Z platform improves accuracy, compliance, and security, while promoting skills development and accommodating AI advances. To learn more about ibi and Cloud Software Group, visit them on the web.  Visit the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Learn more at the Flash Jam exam prep session for certification as an IBM Cloud Professional Architect v6, our most popular certification. This webinar will help prepare you to succeed on the certification exam. An explanation of the 66-question, 90-minute certification 60 flashcard questions that may appear on the examAn opportunity to take the Professional Architect v6 exam for FREELearn more about becoming certified when you tune in.

“Speaking about financial institutions, up-time is really important,” says Sapiens senior system programmer Giora Bar. “If you want a system that actually never fails, I would take the mainframe.” Over four decades, he's seen first-hand how IBM Z plays a pivotal role in maintaining operational stability and efficiency. That's why 92 of the world's top 100 banks rely on mainframes to host their core systems. Giora and Sapiens eMerge Unit VP Mordi Tzamit join us to explore the advantages of mainframes, best-practice methodologies, and why financial institutions continue to rely on the IBM Z platform. Listen to hear their views on innovation and modernization prospects for 2024!To learn more about Sapiens International, visit them on the web.  Learn more about Sapiens and IBM Z here, and more about Sapiens eMerge here.Join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Be inspired and learn from the example of two IBM Champions who boosted their careers by stretching beyond their current skill sets to learn something new and certify as IBM Cloud Professional Architects.Join us for a conversation with Laticia Carrow and Janet Sun as we explore:Tips for passing the certification examThe power of IBM study materials and community programsHow to join the IBM Cloud Advocate study group for extra focusThis episode is hosted by Natalie Brooks Powell, Go-to-Market Leader for the IBM Center for Cloud Training and Libby Ingrassia, Program Director for IBM Champions. IBM Champions are clients, partners, and influencers who are the ultimate advocates for IBM technologies.After the webinar, replays are available here.

“The world is running on COBOL,” says IBM's Tom Ross, aka Captain COBOL.  He's not exaggerating: Some 220 billion lines of COBOL process $3 trillion worth of commerce every day – and 1.5 billion new lines are written each year. Modernization is constant, and that can present challenges when the time comes to compile updated programs.  “When programs don't get touched for a period of time, they become forgotten,” observes Jim Rahm, co-founder of Source Recovery. “You can't fix the problem if you don't have the source.” Recovering COBOL source code is his business. If you love COBOL, this deep-dive into source-code forensics is a must-listen!To learn more about COBOL source-code recovery, visit Source Recovery on the web.Visit IBM on the web for more information about our COBOL products. Join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Cloud computing never stops changing. And cloud professionals are always growing and learning as the industry evolves. IBM Center for Cloud Training recently updated one of our most popular certifications: IBM Cloud Professional Architect. So, get ready to get updated on the new curricula.‌Join host Natalie Brooks Powell and special guest Thomas Macaulay, Curriculum Manager at IBM Center for Cloud Training, to learn what you need to know.‌Learn how the Professional Architect exam (which is now v6) has been revised to better align with the day-to-day job roleDiscover new concepts, best practices, and the latest advances in IBM CloudFind out more about the value of certifying to increase your skills and knowledgeMove your career forward. Don't miss the Professional Architect webinar.Cloud computing never stops changing. And cloud professionals are always growing and learning as the industry evolves. IBM Center for Cloud Training recently updated one of our most popular certifications: IBM Cloud Professional Architect. So, get ready to get updated on the new curricula.‌Join host Natalie Brooks Powell and special guest Thomas Macaulay, Curriculum Manager at IBM Center for Cloud Training, to learn what you need to know.‌Learn how the Professional Architect exam (which is now v6) has been revised to better align with the day-to-day job roleDiscover new concepts, best practices, and the latest advances in IBM CloudFind out more about the value of certifying to increase your skills and knowledgeMove your career forward. Don't miss the Professional Architect webinar.

The Flash Jam exam prep session for certification as an IBM Cloud Technical Advocate was a hit at the IBM TechXchange conference in Las Vegas. Now, learners who did not attend TechXchange conference or who want a refresher, can get the same useful tips and tricks for certification in the same convenient one-hour format. Attendees will see:An explanation of the 66-question, 90-minute certification exam60 flashcard questions that may appear on the examAn opportunity to take the Technical Advocate exam for FREELearn more about this foundational Cloud certification when you tune in.

The learning begins when the IBM Center for Cloud Training discusses two upcoming study jams:  IBM Cloud for Technical Advocate and IBM Cloud for SAP Specialty.  Take advantage of  these two great certifications and utilize the full power of IBM Cloud. IBM Cloud Technical Advocate Watch Party: Join our learning community for a Study Jam replay and the opportunity for live discussion with IBM Cloud experts. IBM Cloud for SAP Specialty Study Jam: Prepare to earn your credentials now, so you'll be ready as SAP moves from on-premises workloads to the cloud.

Jason McGee, CTO of IBM Cloud, discusses how industry leaders make innovation happen in their changing markets and where these transformations will take us next. Tune in for a lively conversation on trends that are emerging for businesses and for individuals, for technical and non-technical workers. Led by Natalie Brooks Powell, GTM Leader for the IBM Center for Cloud Training, this episode will focus on the future of Cloud including:The amount of data that will be in the CloudThe impact of Cloud on where people will workGaming and video streaming in the CloudStorage and security in the Cloud.The importance of training for jobs in the CloudBecause one thing's for certain. The future of computing will be Cloud.

Watch the April 27th  episode of IBM Community Webinar to learn how one IBMer joined a Study Jam and earned her certification within weeks. Join the IBM Center for Cloud Training's Natalie Brooks Powell, Go To Market Leader, as she interviews IBM Account Executive Kelly Dlabaj about her certification journey.  In this episode you'll learn:Study hints and best practices How and why to access past Study Jam replaysTips and tricks for taking a certification exam

The IBM Center for Cloud Training announces the new certification: IBM Cloud for SAP. Professionals who earn their IBM Cloud for SAP certification will learn how to transform businesses, including:When to implement SAP on IBM Cloud:Scenarios for migrating existing SAP workloads to IBM CloudCompute and storage considerations for SAP on IBM CloudNetworking and security solutions

Watch ICCT's upcoming TechXchange webinar about the curriculum changes in IBM Cloud Professional Developer and discover how to help build a better cloud. Learn about updates in the developer curriculum, reducing the study time to approximately 15 hours down from 55 hours, with about half as many courses as before. And the content isn't just shorter; it has been restructured to be more aligned with IBM Cloud Developer perspective and workflow, based on feedback from learners and subject matter experts.This episode discusses these changes and more:Much shorter learning path: now 15 – 16 hours, down from 55!Improved the learner experienceRestructured contentFind out how Professional Developer has been re-tuned to help you build the cloud services and large-scale applications for complex cloud environments businesses need to succeed.

Dave Cole remembers his first encounter with the TSO TEST command, back during the mid-1970s. “I said to myself, I can do better,” he recalls, concluding, “I did better.” Four decades later, ColeSoft z/XDC is the benchmark of assembler tools, relied on by IBM Z developers worldwide for analyzing code. z/XDC continues to evolve -- and it's helping train the next generation of IBM Z talent. “It's exciting to get younger people coming around,” Dave says. “We can generate some real excitement once we get somebody who's committed to that direction.” Listen and hear where z/XDC is headed next … Antarctica, perhaps?To learn more about ColeSoft and z/XDC, visit their website.  Join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more  updates on how ISVs and partners are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.And don't forget IBM Z Day, coming on October 18. Join this one-say online event to learn the very latest about innovation from IBM Z, spanning AI, hybrid cloud, quantum-safe security, and more. Register here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

Delivered with a Blue Bow: Unboxing the IBM z16 Rack Mount “When ours rolled into the warehouse, it had a blue bow on it,” Jim Fyffe recalls with a chuckle. He's not kidding; the IBM z16 rack mount is a special machine. This new system is designed with sustainability in mind.  It's the same IBM z16 with the Telum processor, and the security and reliability of IBM z16, but in a rack, delivered in a configuration for clients who want a smaller footprint and more co-location options.  Listen in as Jim Fyffe and Scott Rudin of Evolving Solutions share their experiences with one of the very first IBM z16 rack mount units: what installation was like, and how their customers are responding -- including a preview of AI capabilities and LinuxONE compatibility. Visit IBM on the web for more information about IBM z16 rack mount and LinuxONE Rockhopper 4 rack mount; to explore more about flexible-compute capabilities watch Big Innovation in a Smaller Footprint.To learn more about Evolving Solutions, visit their website.  Also be sure to view Evolving  Solutions' IBM z16 rack mount installation video; reach out to Evolving Solutions to learn more or to schedule a visit.|Join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

With the sudden onset of AI, data threats have changed and increased in velocity almost overnight.  “This wave of change is going be a lot faster than some of the previous waves that have hit technology,” says PKWARE CTO Jason Dobbs. “It's important that everybody hits this head on, almost immediately.”  PKWARE has used AI and machine learning for years.  Listen and learn how PKWARE and IBM collaboratively protect sensitive data, and how you can begin to prepare for the latest round of oncoming threats.For more information about IBM Z security, visit IBM security solutions on the web: https://www.ibm.com/z/security. To learn more about PKWARE security solutions, please visit their website, https://www.pkware.com, and the PK Protect product page, https://go.pkware.com/pk-protect-for-z/os_dra. And be sure to join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM Z platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here: https://www.ibm.com/community/z/usergroups/isv-ecosystem/join. Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM Z.

The Importance of Advocacy in Building a zSystems Career “Advocacy is all about sharing,” says Mainline Information Systems' Dusty Rivers – and he walks the talk. Dusty has been an advocate throughout his entire career. As an IBM Lifetime Champion for zSystems, he's inspiring a new generation of zSystems professionals. Join IBM advocacy leader Shari Chiara as she and Dusty discuss the ongoing mission of evangelizing mainframe innovation, modernization, and the growing career opportunities on the zSystems platform. “The legacy I want to leave is making people successful in the area where I started,” Dusty says, “and leaving it better than when I got into it.” For more about the IBM Champions program and Mainline Information Systems, visit IBM and Mainline online. For more on IBM zSystems modernization, visit the IBM Z and Cloud Modernization Center. And be sure to join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM zSystems platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more. Join here. Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM zSystems.

In this webinar, we look at what happened when one IBM Director earned IBM Cloud certification – and challenged his team to follow. Learn how they exceeded expectations and what they hope to gain from certification.

In February, we discuss ICCT's newly streamlined Study Jam for one of the most in-demand roles in Cloud. It's the fastest, easiest way to prepare for your certification exam.

No one knows more about IBM Cloud for VMware solutions than IBM.  Learn how to design, build, and run VMware environments efficiently in the IBM Cloud. Find out about this latest specialty certification from the award-winning IBM Center for Cloud Training.

Data migration doesn't have to be daunting.  A modern Web interface can help reduce friction, making the process faster, easier, and more productive.  With tools like the IBM Transparent Data Migration Facility (TDMF) for z/OS, scrolling through green screens is a thing of the past. Join 21st Century Software's Brandon Wilkie and Chris Hartley, and IBM's Fiona King, as they take a deep dive into what it takes to scope, plan, and execute a data-migration project – and how powerful DevOps tools contained in IBM z/OS Management Facility (z/OSMF) accelerates plug-in development.For more about like the IBM Transparent Data Migration Facility (TDMF) for z/OS and the IBM z/OS Management Facility (z/OSMF) visit 21st Century Software and IBM online. Learn more about z/OSMF here. For more on IBM zSystems modernization, visit the IBM Z and Cloud Modernization Center.And be sure to join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM zSystems platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more. Join here. Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM zSystems.

Running to the Mainframe: Modernization Without Disruption“I ran to the mainframe,” Rocket Software CEO Milan Shetti says with a chuckle, recalling his journey to the IBM zSystems platform.  “Mainframe is the backbone of so many industries, and it's the greenest platform out there.”  After decades pioneering IT innovations, Shetti joined Rocket in 2020 with a mission of driving modernization without disruption. In today's environment, companies need to modernize systems without interruption -- upgrading existing mainframe technology without any effect on their operations, investments, or other related processes. It's a much safer route for gaining access to the latest software tools and solutions, as compared with riskier "rip and replace" or "lift and shift" alternatives. In this podcast, Shetti and IBM zSystems Ecosystem VP Meredith Stowell discuss Shetti's journey to the mainframe, feedback from clients and the community based on his recent interaction, and what's resonating in the market in these rapidly changing times. Listen for their insights into where zSystems is headed during 2023!For more about modernization without disruption, visit Rocket Software online. Be sure to follow Milan Shetti on LinkedIn, and his modernization blog on CIO.com.For more on IBM zSystems modernization, visit the IBM Z and Cloud Modernization Center.And be sure to join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM zSystems platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here. Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM zSystems.

When UNICOM's Michelle Harris started her career in the IBM zSystems world 30 years ago, women were a rarity.  Today there are boundless opportunities for women on the zSystems platform, but nurturing them requires dedicated attention.  Programs like IBM Z Xplore and innovations like Zowe are making zSystems more accessible and more attractive.  From recruiting talent, to developing skills, to navigating job roles, Michelle shares practical guidance for organizations looking to improve diversity -- encouraging women to embrace the challenge and forge their own path in the zSystems domain. ResourcesWe hope you enjoyed this z/Action! podcast.  For more about UNICOM, visit them on the web, and also visit Macro 4.For more on COBOL's birth, read about Grace Hopper.For more on the origins of computer programming, read about Ada Lovelace.Learn how the Stemettes inspire young women in IT. For more on IBM zSystems modernization, visit the IBM Z and Cloud Modernization Center And be sure to join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM zSystems platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  Join here. Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM zSystems.

12 certifications in 11 months. Learn one IBMer's philosophy for continually learning thru training and certifications. 

IBM Cloud Advocate is the gateway to cloud computing – and for many people, to a new career. Watch our next episode of Tech TV on October 20th, to hear how two IBMers working at different jobs in different countries pursued the same cloud certification.Natalie Brooks Powell - Strategy & GTM Leader, IBM Center for Cloud TrainingJulius Okwo, CISSP - Security Compliance LeaderRonald Wagner - IBM Cloud 

When it's time to go beyond cloud basics with a deeper technology dive, it's easy to certify as an IBM Cloud Technical Advocate. Learn more about what it takes to get your IBM Cloud Technical Advocate certification on our latest Tech TV episode on September 15.       This program features a discussion on the IBM Cloud Technical Advocate training curriculum and certification. It features a discussion with Natalie Brooks Powell, Strategy and GTM Leader for IBM Center for Cloud Training (ICCT) and James Belton, CTO for ICCT, covering who should pursue this certification, what candidates will learn in the curriculum, and specific practice exam questions to help candidates succeed.Natalie BrooksStrategy & GTM Leader, IBM Center for Cloud TrainingJames BeltonThe CTO for IBM Center for Cloud Training 

Security Engineer is one of the most highly sought-after job roles in the Cloud industry. Learn more about this profession and how to become an IBM Cloud Security Engineer on our upcoming TechTV Episode, September 19.Natalie Brooks Powell - Strategy & GTM Leader IBM Center for Cloud Training James Belton - Office of the CTO, IBM Center for Cloud Training

 Powering Modernization in the Financial Services Industry with IBM zSystems The IBM zSystems platform is leading digital modernization in the financial services industry, offering superior value and performance. Finwave is at the forefront of this transformation, including factoring, leasing, banking, securities, consumer credit, compliance, and more. Hear how Finwave is helping clients integrate new paradigms like mobile and hybrid cloud by exploiting z/OS technologies like Unicode, Unix System Services, z/OS Connect, and CICS.We hope you enjoyed this z/Action! podcast. For more about Finwave, visit them on the web.For more on IBM zSystems modernization, visit the IBM Z and Cloud Modernization Center. And be sure to join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM zSystems platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more. Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM zSystems.Lutech GroupFinwaveThe new reality of the Financial Solutions and Credit Management industryhttps://lutech.group/en/finwaveIBM Z and Cloud Modernization CenterAccelerate transformation in your IBM Z environment with expert resources, guidance, and capabilities.community.ibm.com

IMS is a proven database; it's been around since the Apollo program. When it's time to migrate from IMS to Db2 – because of skills, cost, or modernization issues – there are tools and techniques to get you there successfully. Bill Bostridge, VP of Sales for Infrastructure Optimization at Precisely, details alternatives to rewriting code. He explains how to migrate data from IMS to Db2 without disturbing legacy applications or maintaining multiple databases, using tools like Precisely's Syncsort Optimize IMS solution.ResourcesWe hope you enjoyed this z/Action! podcast. For more about Syncsort, visit Precisely on the web.For more on IBM zSystems modernization, visit the IBM Z and Cloud Modernization Center.And be sure to join the ISV Ecosystem User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for more updates on how ISVs are innovating the IBM zSystems platform: blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more. Join here.Subscribe to z/Action! Each month we meet some of the world's most innovative companies as they share how they're expanding horizons and driving success with IBM zSystems.