Addressing the Mainframe Skills Gap, a Tech Field Day Extra at SHARE Delegate Roundtable

This Tech Field Day Delegate Roundtable discussion at SHARE Kansas City 2024, led by Stephen Foskett, focused on addressing the mainframe skills gap. The conversation highlighted the varying perspectives on whether a skills gap truly exists, with some organizations successfully implementing apprenticeship and training programs, while others lag behind. The discussion emphasized that the skills issue is not unique to mainframes but is a broader IT problem. Delegates discussed the importance of creating safe learning environments and the need for hands-on experience with mainframe systems. They also noted the challenges of integrating mainframe training into modern educational curricula due to time constraints and the complexity of the material. The conversation suggested that while larger organizations with substantial resources can address the skills gap more effectively, smaller entities and government agencies often struggle. The panel concluded that the mainframe’s longevity and critical role in modern IT infrastructure necessitate sustained investment in training and development to ensure a steady pipeline of skilled professionals.