Uwe Graf: Champion of the Mainframe’s Past, Present, and Future
Uwe Graf
Lead Modernization Architect, EasiRun Europa GmbH
Saxony, Germany
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IBM Champion, software architect, writer, and mainframe enthusiast, Uwe Graf has many talents. Known for sparking interest in mainframe technology while reminding people that Germans do have a sense of humor, Uwe seamlessly blends technical insight with creative flair.
A Lead Modernization Architect at EasiRun Europa GmbH, Uwe is a vocal advocate for mainframes as a cornerstone of enterprise computing for all time: historically, now, and well into the future. His work encourages IT professionals, students, and the next generation of developers to appreciate and invest in the platform that powers critical industries from banking to healthcare. Whether he’s dissecting the continued relevance of COBOL or explaining why Fortran still holds its place in programming rankings, Uwe highlights the enduring value of so-called “legacy” systems.
As a writer for Golem.de and Planet Mainframe, Uwe tackles topics such as CICS transaction monitors, software modernization strategies, and performance tuning. His articles don’t just inform—they invite readers to rethink their assumptions. His piece Thoughts from a Mainframe on Halloween offers a playful, imaginative take on life inside the data center, proving that technical writing doesn’t have to be dry.
But Uwe doesn’t stop at the page. Through high-quality social media posts, he fosters dialogue, encourages curiosity, and consistently draws attention to the advantages of mainframes. His advocacy extends to educational outreach, inspiring students and scholars to explore mainframe careers and understand the platform’s role in digital transformation.
With a self-proclaimed title of Modern Mainframe Nerd, Uwe is part educator, part entertainer, and fully committed to ensuring that mainframes — and the people who work on them — continue to thrive. His mission is clear: celebrate the platform, grow the community, and have a little fun along the way.
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.
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