Talking with Sai Gujja & Greg Lotko of Broadcom

Addressing the Skills Crisis in the Mainframe Industry

Welcome to another Conversations with Dez. In this episode, we have the privilege of being joined by two amazing guests from Broadcom’s mainframe division. We’ll be discussing the skills crisis in the Big Iron industry and what Broadcom is doing to address it.

Introducing Greg Lotko and Sai Guja

Greg Lotko is the General Manager and Senior Vice President of the Mainframe Division at Broadcom. Sai Guja is the Engineering Lead Supervisor for the Mainframe security and compliance space in Broadcom.

The Skills Crisis in the Mainframe Industry

Our clients are at varying stages of dealing with the skills crisis in the mainframe industry. They are looking at how to onboard new hires, including millennials, retrainees, and individuals from different skill sets moving into technology or transitioning from other areas into mainframe.

Addressing the Impending Shortage

Despite the challenges, there is data displaying that the needle is being moved, and progress is being made in addressing the impending shortage of skills in the industry.

The ASE Program and Vitality Residency

Broadcom has implemented the ASE program, which stands for Associate Software Engineer Program, to train new mainframers. The program includes classes, assignments, and mentors to help individuals develop the necessary skills to thrive in the mainframe industry. Additionally, Broadcom has introduced the Vitality Residency to support full stack enterprise-level support for mainframe components.

Sai Guja’s Experience in the ASE Program

Sai Guja shared her experience of joining the ASE program and how it reignited her love for the low-level details in programming. The program equipped her with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the mainframe industry.

The Future of Mainframe Education

Greg Lotko shared insights into the future of mainframe education. He emphasized the importance of embracing self-education and continuous skill development. He also discussed the impact of web-based training and the expansion of Broadcom’s presence at various industry events and conferences.

Broadcom’s Online Web-Based Training

In just a few months since opening up their online web-based training, Broadcom has seen a 20 percent increase in uptake. This significant growth shows the impact of making education more readily available to individuals interested in the mainframe industry.

Conclusion

The skills crisis in the mainframe industry is being addressed through programs like the ASE program, initiatives like the Vitality Residency, and a focus on continuous education and skill development. With the right education and support, individuals are being empowered to thrive in the mainframe space.

Are you interested in learning more about the skills crisis in the mainframe industry and how Broadcom is addressing it? Stay tuned for more insightful conversations on Conversations with Dez.

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