As I complete the foundational phase of the IBM Z Global Skills Accelerator (GSAP) Program, I've taken some time to reflect on what has been a truly transformative 12 weeks. Designed to develop the next generation of mainframe professionals, the GSAP offers more than 300 hours of structured learning, mentorship and practical experience - and it absolutely delivers. When I was invited to share my experience. I was excited for the opportunity. This program has not only broadened my technical knowledge but also deepened my appreciation for how powerful and relevant mainframe technology still is in today's world.
Before the program officially began, I took the initiative to complete many of the zXplore learning tasks. That early exposure turned out to be extremely valuable. It gave me a solid foundation in mainframe concepts and real-world applications, making it much easier to keep pace once GSAP kicked off. For anyone considering a future in this field, I'd highly recommend starting with zXplore. It bridges the gap between curiosity and capability, helping you hit the ground running when the formal learning begins.
One of the most rewarding and challenging parts of the experience for me was learning Job Control Language (JCL). At first, JCL felt intimidating - it's highly structured, and the syntax isn't exactly intuitive for beginners. But GSAP emphasizes hands-on, real-world application, and that made all the difference. Rather than just reading or watching videos, we had the chance to use JCL in simulated environments and labs. That constant exposure and practical use helped me gain confidence and turn something that initially seemed confusing into a skill I now feel comfortable using.
The curriculum itself is very comprehensive. It covers everything from core concepts and terminology to deep dives into IBM z/OS, system commands, and system programming. The sections on "Commands and Panels" and "System Programming" were especially impactful for me. These modules connected the dots between theory and practice and gave me a real sense of how enterprise-level computing operates at scale. Again, the hands-on labs played a huge role. Applying what we learned in live environments made the lessons stick in a way that reading alone just can't achieve.
GSAP also includes professional development components that I didn't expect but really appreciated - especially the focus on agile methodologies and Design Thinking. These frameworks are essential for working in modern tech teams, and while I'm still progressing through those modules, I've already found them useful in shaping how I think about problem-solving, collaboration, and iterative development. Understanding how to approach projects with flexibility and teamwork is just as important as having the technical know-how, and GSAP does a great job of addressing both sides.
One of the most valuable aspects of the program has been the support system. My personal mentor, Matt, the IBM Academic Liaison and Enterprise Skills Lead, EMEA, has been an incredible resource - always available to guide me through new topics, offer feedback, or just answer questions when I got stuck. The weekly Subject Matter Expert (SME) sessions with Paul Newton, a Consulting IT Specialist at IBM, were another standout feature. Paul brings deep industry experience and a great teaching style, making complex topics feel a lot more manageable. On top of that, the GSAP Community User Group offered a space for peer-to-peer learning and support, creating a sense of community throughout the program.
Looking back, the IBM Z Global Skills Accelerator Program has been a perfect mix of structured learning, real-world application, and professional growth. It's not just about absorbing knowledge - it's about applying it, asking questions, and building the mindset needed for long-term success. After completing this first phase, I feel more confident, more capable, and even more curious. I'm genuinely looking forward to diving deeper into the next part of the program and continuing my journey toward becoming a skilled and well-rounded mainframe professional.
This blog was originally published on the IBM Community.