Stream: WAVEZ 101
Time: 14:30 - 15:15
Mainframes are powerful systems that run banks, airlines, and governments. But for many students and beginners, they feel confusing or hard to access. In this session, I will share my story of how I entered the mainframe world as a student with no prior experience. I’ll talk about how I started learning through IBM Z Xplore, how I won the Catch the Flag competition at the GSE UK Conference, and how I was selected for the Open Mainframe mentorship program (Addressing the COBOL Crisis). I’ll also explain simple ways for students and young professionals to begin their mainframe journey—step by step. This session is perfect for beginners who want to understand what mainframes are, why they matter, and how to build a career in this space.
There is currently no attachment for Breaking Into the Mainframe World: A Beginner’s Journey from Zero to Z
Meena Chand is a recent graduate from the University of Wolverhampton with a deep passion for mainframe technology and enterprise computing. With nearly five years of experience in IT management, software development, and digital transformation, she has worked on innovative projects spanning web and mobile applications, and IoT solutions. Her expertise in computing was recognized at the GSE UK Conference 2024, where she, along with her team, won the prestigious Catch the Flag (CTF) competition, solving z/OS security and performance challenges. She also holds the IBM Z Xplore All-Star badge, demonstrating her technical proficiency in mainframe computing. Beyond her technical contributions, Meena has been invited as a guest speaker and resource person at Kathmandu University, Broadway Infosys, and other leading institutions in Nepal, sharing her insights on technology, software development, spirituality, and career opportunities. She has also been featured in national newspapers, magazines, and university interviews for her contributions to technology and education.
Aravind Jalajan is a passionate cybersecurity professional and community leader currently pursuing his MSc in Cybersecurity at the University of Hertfordshire. With a background in Computer Science and multiple years of leadership experience, Aravind has served as Chair of the BCS Hertfordshire Branch and led his university's Computer Science Society to win “Best Academic Society” in 2024. He has represented his university at national conferences such as GSE UK, where he explored cybersecurity, AI, and mainframe innovation. As a School Community Organiser and Director of the SPECS Alliance, Aravind advocates for student empowerment, diversity, and sustainable development in tech education. Known for combining technical insight with inclusive leadership, he speaks on topics ranging from cybersecurity innovation and responsible AI to student development and community-driven change.
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