Many of today’s mainframe professionals realize they must update their skills to align with the changing IT infrastructures and the technologies that shape them. What should these individuals prioritize as they seek to equip themselves for the future?
Target the Most In-Demand Skills
Mainframe professionals can start by committing to learning about the technologies most likely to shape their future roles and tasks. Cloud computing, cybersecurity, and DevOps skills have become increasingly important, especially as more workplaces adopt hybrid workforces.
To narrow down which new skills to master first, consider current roles and career aspirations, thinking specifically about how industries and employers’ needs may change in the next several years.
For example, a common assumption is that the largest workplaces will get the most value from cloud computing. However, a 2023 study revealed that micro, medium, and small enterprises often lead experimentation with cloud-based technologies. For example, cloud computing infrastructure increased healthcare value by enabling more internet-based appointments.
However, the research indicated that a lack of cybersecurity and tech skills was among the primary barriers preventing this group from furthering its cloud adoption.
TIP 1: Mainframe professionals should consider updating their skills for the cloud and looking for opportunities in smaller businesses.
Consider Online or Short-Term Skill-Building Programs
Many mainframe professionals can only feasibly upgrade their skills through educational opportunities that allow them to keep working while learning. Fortunately, plenty of online programs cater to participants based on the times and locations most convenient for them. The curriculums for these courses are often highly timely, covering topics from emerging ransomware threats to new DevOps strategies.
Another possibility is to enroll in short, intensive, and highly focused IT development courses. These can be fast-paced and demanding, but they condense learning into a much smaller time frame than other, more traditional options like a university-based certificate. Then, it is easier for students to fit the learning into their other obligations, such as arranging to take time off from work with employers. Consider options such as:
Many employers increasingly know the need to make their mainframe professionals feel valued and supported. If the company already offers professional development as an employee perk, learners may be able to get assistance paying for the course, making the possibility even more appealing.
When employers support their mainframe professionals’ desire for skill growth, the workers are likelier to stay with the company long-term and view themselves as vital contributors to its current and future success.
TIP 2: Try online options
Pursue Relevant Certifications
It is also valuable for mainframe professionals to find and work toward career certifications, badges and other reflections of their newly acquired skills. These documents and similar awards for completion bolster people’s job market competitiveness and clarify what they have learned to make them ready to support modern IT infrastructures.
Selecting certifications from well-known providers is a smart decision that reinforces the high-quality and industry-specific nature of the associated learning content. Additionally, mainframe professionals should frequently explore ways to expand their knowledge, understanding that professional development is a lifelong process — particularly in the ever-changing landscapes at tech-centric companies.
Some technology companies have specific development programs for their mainframe professionals. An example is Kyndryl, one of the world’s largest IT infrastructure services providers. More than 5,000 of its mainframe professionals already have tens of thousands of tech certifications.
However, company leaders have launched a new educational initiative where those workers will also receive AI-related training. Executives belieAve those skills will prepare the workforce to assist Kyndryl’s customers who want to accelerate their AI-based projects.
TIP 3: Learn skills indirectly related to mainframes, such as AI and APIs
Stay Informed and Visible
Related, workers should commit to regularly reading industry publications, like those published on Planet Mainframe, attending conferences, and gathering with peers. The new information gleaned from these activities will inform which skills to develop next and how their capabilities compare to those in the sector for similar amounts of time. For ideas, search for ‘top mainframe conferences’ yields to discover locations and pricing.
TIP 4: Leave your mainframe and mingle.
Upskilling Is Essential for Success
Mainframe professionals must remain adaptable and well-informed in the evolving tech industry. Upskilling is one of the most applicable ways to give them the knowledge and practical tools to tackle new challenges while remaining competitive and able to anticipate what is ahead for their companies and the sector.