My professional story began with a major leap: moving to the U.S. and pursuing a Master’s degree in Software Engineering. I expected to follow a conventional path in modern development, equipped with the latest tools and concepts. That plan shifted the moment I encountered two unexpected words: the mainframe.
Right after graduation, I learned about the Mainframe Vitality Program. My honest reaction was, “What even is a mainframe…and how do they work?” Everything I had studied felt worlds apart from this technology. But curiosity won. I started researching, and with every article, every diagram, and every story, the picture became even clearer.
I discovered the critical, large-scale role of mainframes, learning that they power global banking, vast insurance systems, and complex supply chains. Working in this field would mean contributing to massive-scale impact, while ensuring stability and security. I applied immediately and was thrilled to be accepted.
Building an Unshakeable Foundation
Joining the Mainframe Vitality Program remains one of the best decisions I’ve made. The program is intentionally designed to transform newcomers into confident system engineers.
The first phase consists of a rigorous, six-month immersion into the Mainframe Foundation curriculum which gave me the architectural understanding and platform fundamentals the industry demands. Reliability isn’t optional in this world, and that mindset became ingrained early.
After the core foundation, we progressed into product-specific training. For months, I focused on essential automation and scheduling tools like CA Scheduler and ESP, gaining a clear sense of how mainframe environments are orchestrated at scale. These skills gave me immediate, practical value.
The program also offered something equally important: community. Through networking events and opportunities like attending SHARE, I connected with veteran engineers, peers, and thought leaders. Seeing the mainframe’s ongoing evolution firsthand helped me understand both the responsibility and the excitement of this field.
Turning Training Into Real Impact
The residency phase brought everything to life. Stepping into a System Engineer role at a large company, I felt prepared and not overwhelmed. Thanks to the foundation laid through specialized training, I was able to contribute from day one out in the real world.
I quickly applied my product knowledge to analyze complex workflows and support the team’s automation initiatives. What once felt abstract in training became tangible, real-world problem-solving. The residency accelerated both my confidence and my capabilities.
Completing the program and accepting a full-time position was a milestone I never imagined back when I first arrived in the U.S. The Mainframe Vitality Program didn’t just give me skills—it helped me launch a career I’m extremely proud of.
A Message to Future Mainframers
If you’re interested in a mainframe career, look into the Mainframe Vitality Program and take the training seriously. The road to mastering the mainframe is challenging, but the reward is a powerful, secure career. In the tough moments, remember to not give up. Persistence is the key. Maintain your consistency and motivation throughout the training. Your focused effort will transform you into a confident professional who is essential to global commerce. Keep motivated, be consistent, and secure your place at the core of technology. I’m glad I did.