The Big Easy played host to one of our most anticipated events of the year this August – the SHARE Mainframe Tech Conference in New Orleans. Infotel was there as a sponsor to meet with current and potential clients, and network with some of the best minds in the industry.
What emerged from this exciting experience was a revelation: the future of mainframe security has never been more topical than it was at SHARE New Orleans. We can’t remember when so many sessions were dedicated to InfoSec, including Infotel’s partner Tony Perri’s presentation on securing the mainframe.
Tony and Reg Harbeck, two prominent experts in enterprise technology, delivered a presentation that was well received by those in attendance, which included IBMers, vendors, and conference attendees. Their discussion revolved around crossing (horizontal and vertical) siloes in the enterprise to get every department on the same page for enterprise security and compliance. They emphasized the need for organizations to adapt rapidly to new challenges. Their session from August 17th titled “From Complaints to Security and Compliance: The IT Department and Marketing Department Alliance” is available for download here.
With security breaches becoming increasingly sophisticated, the insights provided by Tony and Reg into the latest security protocols were a different approach, emphasizing workforce departments coming together to reduce one of the most prominent threats to Information Security – employee errors.
The SHARE agenda was peppered with security-focused presentations, and discussions around mainframe security took precedence in a way that hasn’t been seen in years. This shift underscored the urgency of safeguarding critical data and systems that are undergoing tremendous change with the modernization and digitization initiatives that are exploding in the post-pandemic era.
Young Mainframers En Force at SHARE New Orleans
Additionally, Infotel’s team was pleased to see a significant influx of young tech enthusiasts at the SHARE New Orleans conference this year. In an industry often dominated by seasoned professionals, the presence of these budding talents was refreshing. They brought with them a fresh perspective and a hunger to innovate. Some of our team members had the privilege of talking to young students who were deeply interested in the mainframe technology that the SHARE organization celebrates. Their enthusiasm and curiosity bode well for the future of the platform.
One of the standout moments at the conference was the interest and buzz around IBM Champions. These are individuals recognized by IBM for their outstanding expertise and contributions to the technology ecosystem. Their presence at SHARE was a testament to the conference’s reputation as a hub for the industry’s brightest minds.
Infotel’s booth was abuzz with activity as people from various organizations flocked to learn more about our solutions for managing data on the mainframe.
The latest version of IBM’s mainframe, the Z16, generated quite possibly the most significant interest. Attendees were eager to learn how this cutting-edge technology could bolster their security measures. Infotel made sure to gather valuable insights into this latest release, ensuring that we stay at the forefront of innovation to better serve our clients.
Returning to Tony and Reg’s presentation, it was a highlight of the conference. Their expertise in mainframe security and their forward-looking approach left a lasting impression. They shared practical strategies and actionable insights that attendees could implement immediately. Infotel is already exploring partnerships and collaborations with these thought leaders to enhance our security solutions.
Beyond the conference sessions, IBM hosted a memorable party that allowed attendees to unwind and network in a relaxed setting – a bowling alley honkey-tonk with live music. It was a great opportunity for professionals from different corners of the industry to connect and share ideas, all while having a bit of fun.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this year’s SHARE conference was the record attendance. According to conference organizers, SHARE New Orleans drew a larger crowd than ever before, indicating the growing interest in mainframe technology and its importance in today’s digital landscape. The show floors were bigger and more bustling, providing ample opportunities for attendees wanting to network and explore the latest solutions available to them.
Infotel’s experience at the SHARE conference in New Orleans last month was nothing short of exhilarating. The presence of young talent, the emphasis on mainframe security, and the insights from IBM Champions all painted a promising picture for the future of mainframe technology. Tony and Reg’s presentation served as a guiding light, showing the way forward in an increasingly complex security landscape.
As we reflect on our time at SHARE, it’s evident that the mainframe industry is evolving rapidly, and security is at the forefront of this transformation. Infotel is committed to staying at the cutting edge of these developments, ensuring that our clients remain protected in this dynamic digital world. The SHARE conference was a true testament to the resilience and adaptability of the mainframe community, and we can’t wait to see what the future holds.