Written by Shiva Saberi, SNR Software Engineer, Mainframe Expert Program, Broadcom Mainframe Software Division (MSD)
The Backbone of IT
Let’s start here—with Mainframe IT. Often called the backbone of enterprise computing, mainframes have powered industries like banking, healthcare, and government for decades. Their reliability, security, and scalability make them essential in today’s digital world. As businesses evolve with AI and cloud integrations, mainframes continue to be at the center of innovation.
When I first started exploring mainframe technology, I had no idea just how impactful and widespread it was. I remember coming across statistics that completely shifted my perspective—90% of Fortune 500 companies use COBOL, and 85% of all daily business transactions rely on it. It was a moment of realization: this technology runs the world! I even wrote a LinkedIn post about it back then, amazed at how something so powerful was often overlooked. That early curiosity led me here—to where I am today, fully immersed in the mainframe world.
Women Leading the Change
Mainframe technology has always been about reliability, resilience, and longevity—values that also define the women who have shaped and continue to shape this field. From mentorship to leadership, women in mainframe are driving innovation and creating opportunities for future generations of mainframers. Through technical expertise and advocacy, professional women in mainframe IT are proving that diversity fuels progress.
Support is a powerful force in any journey, whether personal or professional. Just as I’ve had mentors and allies walk beside me in my career, I had the honor of being walked down the aisle by my mother—someone who has always led by example. This moment reminded me of the importance of having strong figures by your side, whether in life or in the workplace.
This community—our mainframe community—has given me that same sense of support, encouragement, and empowerment. We rise together, we lead together, and we redefine the future together.
From Me to We
Throughout my own journey, I’ve seen how mentorship, collaboration, and shared knowledge create opportunities for growth. From Me to We, this is my takeaway: The only red light on the road can stop Me, but We only stop to take a break—We use strengths to work on weaknesses and keep moving forward because there is no going back for Me.
After joining the Broadcom Mainframe Expert Program as the first and only female IT professional, my journey shifted to another level. Advocating for the program at tech conferences (e.g., SHARE Kansas City – see photo below), I saw firsthand how mentorship and collaboration drive progress. This time, my vision has become my mission—delivering value to the entire customer’s mainframe ecosystem.
The only time a Mainframe Expert stops is when their impact at the customer organization has optimized, stabilized, and neutralized IT operations, infrastructure, and issues. The strength of the mainframe doesn’t just come from technology—it comes from the people who power it. And when we move from “me” to “we,” embracing an inclusive and supportive ecosystem, we create a stronger future for everyone.
WEmen Together
The mainframe is more than a platform—it’s a thriving community. To build this community, we must continue creating pathways where women not only thrive but lead. Through shared learning, mentorship, and championing each other, we ensure the mainframe community stays dynamic, diverse, and innovative. Join the conversation, mentor someone new, and let’s keep breaking barriers—WEmen together.
