Today, we recognize someone dedicated to securing the mainframe.
Michael Jordan
Distinguished Engineer, Broadcom
New York, New York USA
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View the entire 2025 Influential Mainframers group here.
In an era where cyber threats are constant and data breaches can cost millions, Michael Jordan (no, not that one) has spent decades reinforcing the mainframe’s role as the most secure enterprise computing platform. Now a Distinguished Engineer at Broadcom and formerly an IBM Distinguished Engineer for Z Security, Jordan is an authority in cryptographic innovation and data protection.
“Extensive use of encryption is one of the most impactful ways to help reduce the risks and financial losses of a data breach, and to help meet complex compliance mandates,” said Jordan.
With over 36 years of mainframe experience, including 30+ years in R&D, Jordan helped define the security roadmap for generations of IBM Z systems. Over the past decade, specifically, Jordan led security innovation in confidential computing, continuous compliance, and quantum-safe encryption. His leadership shaped the z14, z15, and z16 platforms into the modern data privacy and compliance fortresses that they are. He holds over 32 patents in IBM Z security, cryptography, and Parallel Sysplex technologies.
Jordan continued elevating the security conversation over the last year. He took the stage at SHARE 2025 in Washington, D.C., to demystify risk in his session “Decode the Secrets of IT Risk Management” and spoke at the IBM TechXchange Conference 2024 on “Integrating Mainframe Security into Zero Trust Architecture.”
As cyber threats become more sophisticated, Jordan’s influence remains essential. From driving technology innovation to advocating for tighter security practices, he has built a career focused on keeping the world’s most mission-critical systems prepared, defensible, and secure.
Influential Mainframer
Mainframe technology continues to evolve because of the dedicated professionals, educators, mentors, and innovators who drive it forward. We’re shining a spotlight on the individuals who are making waves—whether they’re advancing technology, mentoring new talent, sharing knowledge, championing modernization, or quietly keeping mission-critical systems running every day. These are the people shaping the future of mainframe. They come from all backgrounds and experience levels, but they all have one thing in common: they’re making a difference.
Check back daily as we reveal a new honoree. Read their stories, celebrate their impact, and be inspired.
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