Announcing TechChannel’s 2023 Rising Stars
TechChannel is again recognizing those who have recently launched careers on the IBM Z and Power Systems platforms and are already making a big impact
For the third year, TechChannel is recognizing the next generation of aspiring innovators within the IBM mainframe and Power Systems communities. But before sharing the stories of a new crop of talented IT professionals, a few words about the Rising Stars initiative.
As a provider of education and information about IBM solutions, TechChannel focuses not just on the latest IBM technologies, but on those who spend their careers in this world. There are many stories to tell, not just about tech, but about people, their aspirations and accomplishments. Then there are stories about the IT industry as a whole, and the challenges that exist. And to be sure, there are challenges. With many in this workforce nearing retirement or leaving the platform, attracting new programmers and developers to IBM platforms is a critical need. So we introduce you to people who have recently discovered this technology. We share ideas for closing the skills gap. We cover IBM programs that reach out to students. We emphasize the value of mentoring—and we profile newcomers to the industry in our annual Rising Stars initiative.
“Realizing a need to recognize up-and-coming talent, TechChannel founded Rising Stars two years ago. The program demonstrates the value of education, mentorship and developing new talent in the tech ecosystem," says Emma Pitzl, managing editor, TechChannel.
Since 2021, Rising Stars has highlighted new talent in the Z and Power Systems communities, spotlighting those who recently started their careers but are already making a big impact on the ecosystem, in their companies and in their communities. We caught up with a few former nominees, who discussed what it means to be a Rising Star and how it has impacted their careers:
One thing that I noticed when applying for jobs is how many hiring managers and HR professionals became curious seeing a fresh graduate with mainframe skills," he says. "My recognition as a TechChannel Rising Star and the hands-on experiences obtained from IBM Z Xplore are differentiators, showing employers that they will not make a wrong call by hiring a fresh graduate like me.
The platform TechChannel has shared with me has elevated me into a position of influence. And I’ve used it to give back to the community by helping new people onto the platform and providing them with resources to make their transition easier.
For me, the Rising Stars program means an individual has been chosen as one of a tiny few. One has demonstrated a certain level of excellence in their field, all while learning and growing within their field. This person is a true team player willing to do what is necessary and beyond to ensure the mission is satisfied for all parties involved. To be selected as a Rising Star means you are one of these few individuals, and this is priceless.
The naming of a new class of Rising Stars may be an annual occurrence, but for everyone involved, it's an important part of a bigger picture. For TechChannel editorial staff and contributors, so much of our coverage throughout the year relates to the people working on these platforms—both the issues and challenges that they face, and the opportunities that lie before them.
Rising Stars, past, present and future, are laying the groundwork for successful careers and innovation in today’s tech ecosystem. We're excited to introduce you to the 2023 Rising Stars.