In the world of business computing, few areas are as critical — and yet as overlooked — as mainframe security. Platforms like IBM zSystems still power banking, retail, logistics, and countless industries… but the talent pool to protect them is far too small.
As an IBM Z Student Ambassador Program and part of Your Big Year®, I’m passionate about turning learning into career-shaping opportunities. That’s why I’m excited to share the hashtag#IBM Z Xplore Security Challenges — a free, hands-on learning path from IBM where you can build real skills in securing the systems that keep the global economy running.
Here’s what makes it unique:
💻 Access to a real z/OS mainframe environment (no simulators)
🛡 Practical security labs covering RACF, JCL, encryption, and system hardening
🌍 A global IBM Z learner community with discussion forums and mentoring
📚 Digital IBM badges to showcase your expertise to employers
And the best part? IBM Z Xplore is open to students, professionals, and career changers alike — no prior mainframe experience required. It’s a direct path to IBM-recognized credentials that can launch or accelerate your career in mainframe cybersecurity.
If you’re passionate about tech, cybersecurity, or computing for business, this is your chance to gain skills that connect security expertise with the critical systems powering the world.
With Your Big Year and IBM, we’re on a mission to ensure the next generation of talent can learn, grow, and thrive in industries where expertise is needed now.
💡 Mainframes aren’t a thing of the past — they’re the invisible backbone of the digital economy. And you could be the one to protect them.