A New Generation Shapes the Future of IBM i

In recent months, I have seen an unmistakable, growing wave of younger professionals choosing to invest their energy and creativity in the IBM i platform. This trend was particularly evident at the 2025 PowerUp conference.

Two recent IT Jungle articles, in which I was quoted, highlighted this shift:

• Keep the IBM i Youth Movement Going with More Training, Better Tools: Covers the importance of training and modern tools. Young developers need firsthand experience with environments that feel current, where they can build skills that advance their careers.
• Meet the Next Gen of IBMers Helping to Build IBM i: Introduces the new generation of engineers being recruited by IBM. These twenty-somethings are shifting the IBM i platform’s investments toward newer areas, including AI and cloud integration.

Importance of Younger Professionals

Younger professionals bring fresh ideas, expectations, and energy into a community that has always valued stability and reliability. When combined with mentorship from seasoned experts, this creates a healthy cycle of continuity and renewal.

Training and Support

We have seen a trend toward hiring for inherent qualities such as positive attitude, drive, and a desire to learn. Skills in PHP, Javascript, .Net, and other languages can be transferred to RPG with the right training. Initiatives such as the Richard C. Loeber Fellowship Program from Kisco Systems, which funds free imPOWER RPG training for deserving young professionals, and COMMON Boot Camp Training, should remove any hesitation.

Ongoing support and mentoring help the younger developer feel at home in the IBM i world. Conferences, free online meetings such as Code for i Fridays, and our own Seiden Developer Support (ask us about it) help young professionals feel connected, bridging the gap between the generations.

Keep the Momentum Going

Companies now recognize the need to cultivate young talent. I advise leaders to offer training and support, encourage experimentation, and show young professionals that IBM i is not just relevant, but exciting.