Dear mainframer,

I’ve just returned from Mighty Mainframe Conference and my brain is still pleasantly overloaded, in the best possible engineering sense.

Yes, the sea in Zadar was still stunning. And yes, the weather tried to sabotage us a little. 🌧️

This year’s theme was modernization, but not in the vague, buzzword-heavy way. Instead, the conversations were grounded, practical, and specific.

The key message was clear: modernization is not about replacing the old with something new. It is about aligning everything you do with where you want to go.

Read the full report from the conference here >>>>>

Why AI gets stuck on legacy SCM

AI tools can only deliver real value if the development environment around them is ready.

The uncomfortable truth is that many mainframe AI initiatives are not failing because the AI is weak. They are failing because the systems around it are still built for another era.

If source code is locked inside outdated workflows, if developers still rely on manual handovers, and if modern delivery pipelines are missing, AI will not magically create modernization.

It is a bit like buying a powerful new engine, but keeping it stuck in an old garage with narrow doors and someone manually opening every gate along the way.

In his latest blog, Philipp shares a strong perspective on why this matters now. He explains why legacy SCM tools like ChangeMan, Endevor, and ISPW can quietly limit the return on AI-powered development, why temporary workarounds are not a real long-term strategy, and why Git-based source control and modern delivery pipelines are becoming essential for organizations that want mainframe AI to deliver real impact.

Read the full story here >>>>>

Industry insights

I stumbled upon a cool Browser-native IBM 3270 terminal emulator that talks directly to the mainframe.

It is an open-source project developed by Alexandre Bencz, and it brings a surprisingly modern feel to classic mainframe access.

Current features include:

• Full TN3270E support
• RFC 2355 telnet negotiation
• IBM 3278 terminal models
• IND$FILE file transfer support
• Canvas-based rendering
• EBCDIC CP037 and CP1047 support
• 3279-style colours and highlighting
• Persistent profiles using localStorage
• Hercules/MVS connectivity through a WebSocket bridge

A small reminder that innovation around the mainframe often comes from unexpected places, and sometimes from people who simply decide to build something useful.

Supporting young mainframe talent

The Mighty Mainframe Conference has always been a strong supporter of young mainframe talent, and this year is no exception.

The best students from leading mainframe academies across Europe were invited to attend, connect with experts, and experience the mainframe community up close.

Because modernization is not only about tools and technology. It is also about knowledge transfer, community, and the next generation of mainframers.