Mainframe: Past, Present, and Future

Mainframe systems have been at the heart of enterprise computing for over seven decades, quietly powering the world’s most critical digital services. From banking and government to transportation and insurance, mainframes have delivered unmatched reliability, security, and scalability since their emergence in the 1950s, and they continue to do so today.

In this talk, we revisit the evolution of mainframe computing and explore why it remains strategically important in an era dominated by cloud-native and distributed architectures. Attendees will gain insight into how modern mainframes support Linux workloads, virtualisation, advanced security, and seamless integration with hybrid cloud environments. Far from being legacy technology, today’s mainframes process billions of transactions daily with near-zero downtime, underpinning systems that society depends on.

Looking ahead, the session will examine the future role of mainframes within enterprise IT. Topics include cyber resilience, AI-enabled workloads, and the convergence of trusted legacy platforms with modern innovation. This talk will challenge common misconceptions and demonstrate why mainframes remain a compelling, future-ready platform for organisations facing increasing demands for security, performance, and resilience.

This event is particularly relevant for BCS members interested in enterprise computing, cloud strategy, cybersecurity, systems architecture, and the long-term sustainability of critical digital infrastructure.

Speaker Profile

Speaker : Berk Kaya

Berk Kaya is a Delivery Consultant – IBM Z Early Professional at IBM, specialising in mainframe systems and enterprise technology. He is currently completing his Computer Engineering degree at TED University, following a period of study abroad at Wroclaw University of Science and Technology. Berk’s professional focus is on bridging the reliability of mainframe systems with modern cloud technologies to deliver efficient and forward-looking solutions.

Berk is deeply passionate about the mainframe community. Prior to joining IBM full time, he served as an IBM Z Captain, leading a global team of more than 150 Student Ambassadors. In recognition of his dedication to educating and inspiring students about mainframe computing, he was selected as an IBM Champion. He is particularly enthusiastic about sharing his knowledge of IBM Z with the next generation of developers.

Before joining IBM, Berk gained valuable industry experience as a Cloud Engineer Intern at Huawei and a Data Governance Intern at Turkcell. This diverse background gives him a broad perspective on how different technologies intersect within modern enterprise environments. Outside of technology, Berk is an avid traveller who has visited over 20 countries and enjoys discovering new cultures as much as exploring new technologies.

Timings

19:00 arrival   (light refreshments)
19:30 lecture commences
20:30 lecture finishes (optional Q&A afterwards)
21:00 event closes

Location

College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire
A161, Lindop Building, College Lane Campus, University of Hertfordshire, AL10 9AB

Cost

Free for members and non-members

Booking

Get tickets: https://HertfordshireBranch280126.eventbrite.co.uk

Last updated 22nd January, 2026 at 4:12pm