Stream: Suzuka
Time: 11:00 - 11:45
For new developers, students, or anyone peeking behind the curtain of enterprise computing, getting started with mainframes can feel overwhelming. Green screens, JCL, strange acronyms - it’s a lot. In this session, we’ll walk through Mainframe101, a beginner-focused journey that breaks it all down simply, clearly, and with a bit of fun along the way. From how transactions move through a system, to how to explain a mainframe without scaring people off, this is the crash course I wish existed when I was starting out.
I’m Kyle Pressley, a 17-year-old Computer Science T-Level student and IBM’s youngest Student Ambassador. My mainframe journey began through the WAVEZ scholarship, leading to a placement at IBM London and work with the IBM Z teams. I combine 3D modelling and printing to create mainframe-inspired projects and founded Mainframe101 to help newcomers explore IBM Z technology.
About Me: Niall Ashley Job Experience Niall is a driven individual with a demonstrative experience working across a multitude of different environments including: → Mainframe Security Consulting → Aeronautical Engineering → Software Development Skills Endeavouring to excel, he has become skilled in a diverse range of applications/roles: → CAD software, such as AutoDesk, Techsoft and SketchUp; → Word Processors, such as Google Docs and Microsoft Word; → Spreadsheets, such as Google Sheets and Microsoft Excel; → Web-Design, such as through Google Sites and Wix; → Programming Languages such as C#, HTML and Python; → Cryptography: Encoding and decoding ciphers; → Teaching: Education and training in subjects he is confident in; → Public Speaking & Presenting. → Project Management, Teamwork and Leadership. Additionally, during his professional tenure with Airbus Group and then BMC Software, Niall learned to follow various working methodologies such as Agile, Kaizen and Six Sigma. Volunteering Throughout his free time, he proudly volunteers as a STEM Ambassador and as a Civilian Instructor at a local RAFAC (ATC) Squadron. He is also a driven advocate for mental health and is a qualified Suicide First-Aid trainer: Previously, he volunteered with the suicide prevention charity 'PAPYRUS' throughout the West Midlands, and was trustee of the now-defunct charity 'Positive Thoughts' in Malvern. In order to effectively champion wellbeing in his local community, such as improving awareness and signposting support, he undertook numerous educational modules (including the NHS-affiliated 'eLfH' and training with 'BEAT'), all in order to better understand mental health and forms of support.
Click here to give some Feedback so we can make it even better next year!