Erik Weyler
Mainframe Development Solution Architect, SEB
Stockholm, Sweden
This piece is part of the 2026 Planet Mainframe Influential Mainframers series.
For Erik Weyler, the future of the mainframe starts with changing how people think about it.
Known widely as “COBOL Erik,” Weyler has built a reputation as a clear and confident voice in one of the industry’s most persistent conversations: the role of COBOL in modern enterprise computing. His perspective is both grounded and forward-looking. He is equally comfortable defending the continued importance of established technologies and exploring how they integrate with emerging tools and practices.
That balance defines his impact.
As a Mainframe Development Solution Architect at SEB, Weyler focuses on improving developer productivity and creating practical pathways for modernization. His work centers on combining traditional mainframe strengths with newer technologies, including AI on Z, Python, zLinux, and open source tooling such as Zowe. The goal is not disruption, but evolution—helping teams move forward without losing what already works.
This approach is especially visible in his work with early-career developers. At SEB, Weyler has helped design and lead internal programs that provide new talent with hands-on experience in modern mainframe development. Through codeathons and structured learning initiatives, participants gain exposure to both foundational technologies and emerging capabilities, building confidence in how the platform fits within the broader engineering landscape.
His influence extends beyond the organization. Weyler is an active contributor to the wider mainframe community, speaking at events such as IBM Z Day, GSE Nordics, and GSE UK. He also plays a role in local and regional initiatives that support new-to-Z professionals, helping to grow the next generation of mainframe talent.
A defining characteristic of his work is his willingness to share a strong point of view.
Whether through conference sessions, interviews, or social media, Weyler consistently engages in industry conversations around modernization, developer experience, and the continued relevance of COBOL. His voice is direct, informed, and widely respected. He does not position COBOL as a legacy constraint, but as a critical component of modern enterprise systems—one that continues to evolve alongside new technologies.
This perspective has made him a trusted voice not only within his own organization, but across the broader banking and enterprise IT landscape. He frequently shares insights and experiences with peers across institutions, helping others navigate similar challenges and opportunities.
At the same time, his work reflects a broader commitment to community building.
From hosting regular knowledge-sharing sessions to mentoring developers and engaging with open source initiatives, Weyler consistently creates opportunities for others to learn and contribute. His efforts help make the ecosystem more accessible, more collaborative, and more aligned with modern development practices.
As the industry continues to evolve, voices like Weyler’s play an important role in shaping its direction. By connecting established technologies with new approaches, he helps ensure that the mainframe remains both relevant and resilient.
As a 2026 Planet Mainframe Influential Mainframer, Erik Weyler is helping redefine what it means to build, modernize, and thrive on the mainframe.
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