Should you enter the Mainframe world in 2023?

In this video I'm going to summarize the pro's and con's of working on the Mainframe in 2023.

[ipadista]

So funny, when I started out in the mid nineties, everybody told me "avoid the mainframe scene at all costs, it's an obsolete approach and will soon be ending, no point in learning Cobol" Thirty years later, mainframes and Cobol still runs the important parts of the world...

[wbert]

I started programming in 1974 on a Wang micro-computer as a college freshman. I was able to move to an IBM 370/158 as a college junior and senior. My computer studies were in BAL, computer security, VM/370 operating systems internal, and how to be an IBM VM systems programmer. VM was a great choice, as it allowed me to work for 40+ years. I'm now retired and can still run VM at home using Hercules.

[mitchmccluhan]

...been doing mainframe work for going on 53 years. Yes, job security!! I am frequently asked to provide input and/or support to projects within my organization, often from people who just learned about my background and have contacted me for my experience and knowledge.

[jokkadread]

i have been learning a bit of cobol since im unemployed and wanted to do something for fun as the time pass by, since then i learn not just cobol but JCL, REXX, what is TSO and ISPF and... a bit of cobol

[NatLife]

A mainframe is institutionalized logic. Started with Cobol at the University mainframe in the 1970s. Gave the foundation to later manage large corporate projects worldwide. To start working with a mainframe is a strong foundation for persistent success and reputation in IT. Done right, young man.

[stephenkeen]

Job security? I worked for National Bank in 2008. After 4 months, the bank was sold out to PNC, I was laid off. Got new job at Fifth Third, split off to new corporation, Vantiv. Job outsourced to TATA. Next job I had, I was outsourced to Accenture. My specialty was in zOS Assembler, I coded Assembler all my life (Yes, I knew COBOL also). But, it would appear that to corporations, I cost too much money. I know of coworkers who lost their jobs due to outsourcing. So, would I recommend Mainframe coding? Nah.. If you want job security, become a plumber or electrician.

[iuaj]

In 1999 I was one of the authors of the IBM Redbook CICS/Java. I think today the mainframe should offer more than just JCL and Cobol

[Gumbier_Than]

You've inspired me. Been a Jr. Endevor Admin for about 6mos now and have been regretting it. I jumped ship from break/fix, desktop support.

I got the position for the not-so right reasons, but I love operations and working behind the scenes.

I find IBM hard to comprehend but this video is kickstarting fire I need.

[jamesquintjr]

The big portions of the mainframe (and there are many!), are Automation, Application development and Scheduler package usage and function. Security, CICS, and DB2 as well. zCloud services... All of these can interface with Java, Uss commands and code, etc. But, learning Rexx and JCL is a huge plus. Also an understanding of migrating mainframe applications and associated elements between competitors products is huge right now.

I recommend it! Anything learned on the mainframe applies to so many aspects of other technologies as well. A marvelous system!

[herbertdaly]

Good review of the field. Nice shirt also. - Like the phrases - "This is not that!" - "ISPF is a souped-up command line" - "I think you should lean into it..."

[aceitalia]

I just started a job today on a team managing an IBM Mainframe. This is my first IT job and I feel like this will be great for gaining experience and skills.

[guilhermemoraes]

thanks for your sharing. I am 23 and already have got my first job on mainframe. dunno what to expect, but you give me some wonder.

[Therealfaxkellerman]

I just started working on the mainframe in 2024 and the mentorship is excellent. Soon moving on to the cloud

[billymania]

Thanks Conner. I'm an old guy and getting back into the mainframe world to finish my career. (I only have a 5 year horizon.) Anyway I purchased the IBM ZD&T product to get my feet wet. I see myself only doing Cobol and DB2.

[avisorsetti]

Heys, I wonder;
Where to learn Mainframe? I mean, I know some COBOL at this point, but COBOL is just a tiny bit of the whole picture, and I'd like to learn more.

[SteveDPIves]

Regarding being a front-end web developer : z/OS comes with a powerful Apache-based web server and can run most web technologies. z/OS also natively supports Docker containers.

[Motivatocity]

It's good to hear that many are from mainframe, i am about to compelete my 3 yrs in mainframe tech soon, hope will got to connect with you guys in near future 😊

[marcuswilliams]

Well, it's rather refreshing to hear about a positive mainframe experience especially from someone who is relatively young.

[mobolaji]

Starting as a Junior Mainframe engineer in my career, and I'm super pumped.

[morten]

Great video really i have been in the mainframe work for 6 months, must say you really a correct about a lot of it! But you make it sound easy to learn everything about 3270 😅