Introduction:
Hi there, it’s Des here. I’m currently in Pittsburgh, America, attending Share 2019, and I’ve had an incredible experience so far. On day 2 of the event, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Jim Coco, the Director of Software Engineering at Broadcom and the Pittsburgh Development Site Lead. We had a fascinating conversation about the unique dynamics of the mainframe community and the innovative programs being implemented to address the industry’s skills shortage.
The Unique Dynamics of Share 2019:
- Share 2019 is a birds of a feather gathering focused on building the mainframe community
- The event is not a sales tactic but a platform for networking and information sharing
- The mainframe ecosystem promotes coopetition, where competitors collaborate for the greater good of the industry
The Vitality Program:
- The Vitality program is designed to address the skills shortage in the mainframe industry
- It offers a 7-week training program for new hires, covering mainframe familiarity, hands-on experience, and mentorship
- The program aims to create a sustainable pipeline of mainframe talent and support the long-term success of the industry
The Role of Director of Software Engineering:
- Jim Coco’s role at Broadcom involves overseeing a team of 130 developers focused on IT ops products and performance automation
- The team operates within an agile framework, emphasizing collaboration and customer value
- Regardless of their specific roles, all team members are considered part of the mainframe family first
The Origins and Growth of the ASC Program:
- The ASC program originated in Prague as a response to the skills gap in the mainframe industry
- The program has since expanded to the US, offering training and mentorship to new hires
- The program aims to humanize the mainframe experience and create a supportive network for new talent
The Future of the Vitality Program:
- The Vitality program has the potential to scale globally and attract a diverse range of talent
- The program’s focus on soft skills, teamwork, and hands-on training makes it accessible to individuals from various backgrounds
- The program’s success is a testament to Broadcom’s long-term investment in the future of the mainframe industry
Conclusion:
The conversation with Jim Coco shed light on the innovative initiatives taking place within the mainframe community. The Vitality program’s focus on training, mentorship, and sustainability is a testament to the industry’s commitment to addressing the skills shortage. As the program continues to grow and expand, it has the potential to shape the future of the mainframe industry and attract a new generation of talent.
Sign-off:
Thank you for joining me on this journey into the mainframe community at Share 2019. Stay tuned for more insights and updates on the exciting developments in the industry.
