I’m grateful for the mainframe platform and what it has provided me over the years — gainful employment, challenging learning experiences, and most importantly, the many friends and professional relationships I’ve developed in the last 30 years that I’ve been involved with SHARE. I want to take this moment to collectively thank the volunteers, speakers, staff, and fellow members who have made an impact on my career and my life, and to appreciate SHARE, which made it possible for me to be where I am today.

A highlight for me is always the conferences, where I have the opportunity to reconnect with mainframe colleagues and friends. SHARE is spinning up for our upcoming Washington, D.C. conference, and we are also in the early planning phase for the summer event in Cleveland.

Will You Be at the D.C. SHARE Event?

Registration for SHARE Washington, D.C. is now open, so be sure and register by Jan. 10 to take advantage of the early-bird rates. While registering, consider adding an annual individual membership. This event is the perfect opportunity for government sector mainframers to join us, as we’ll be right in your backyard. Plus, all federal, state, and local government employees can register at the special government employee rate of $995.

I am looking forward to the 350+ technical sessions, partner-sponsored presentations, and Lunch and Learns. Our technical program includes 130+ sessions in Core Technologies (my favorite), including the latest and greatest in AI-infused Operating Systems and Hardware, more than 30 in New and Innovative Technology (ML/AI, Zowe and Quantum), 70+ sessions on Service Delivery topics, over 110 sessions in Languages and Middleware, plus a few professional development sessions.

Tom Koulopoulos will be our opening keynote, sharing with attendees a roadmap for navigating the future of a workplace where humans and digital workers will work side by side and marketplaces where friction is virtually eliminated. He will also discuss the role that AI will play in reimagining work and the critical issues of managing Gen Z and Gen Alpha.

We will also welcome Shakirah Hill Taylor as our Women in Technology program keynote to share strategies for asserting yourself effectively and showcasing leadership without backlash. By emphasizing shared goals and empathy, attendees will learn how to lead in a way that inspires and motivates others.

Why Should You Attend?

SHARE Washington, D.C., is the place for mainframe professionals of all experience levels to learn and network. For professionals new to the mainframe space, this conference is an opportunity for you to meet 1,000+ like-minded peers with a vast array of mainframe and technology knowledge. From technical sessions to dedicated networking, you’re sure to meet a plethora of new peers, forge lasting connections and learn about the latest trends and technology, setting you up for success in 2025 and beyond.

For the more veteran mainframers, SHARE Washington, D.C., is a place to continue to foster your industry partnerships and share your expert knowledge, while also learning about a new trend or tool, too. It’s an event unlike no other where you can select technical sessions on topics that matter most to you and allow you to finetune your skills and industry knowledge over five days.

So Much to Enjoy in D.C.

Washington, D.C., is more than the capital of United States and the home to a number of government agencies and contractors. It is a hub of diversity and innovation, with several technology startups, according to Hatch IT and BuiltIn. SHARE attendees will relish the luxurious surroundings of the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center for five days of technical education and networking.

Attendees will have a unique opportunity to see some of the more unique aspects of the nation’s capital. A short distance from the Gaylord Convention Center is Seward Johnson, Jr.’s “The Awakening,” which was moved from Hains Point in East Potomac Park. This 70-foot giant buried in the sand has become a favorite for visitors. Or walk down the pier to The Capital Wheel and take a ride 180 feet above the historically significant Potomac River in one of 42 climate-controlled gondolas, taking in the Washington Monument and more.

Spirit Park is one of the newest editions to National Harbor, in which 13 American flags stand tall for the 13 original colonies. It also features one-of-a-kind installations, including the scrap iron and cast-bronze bison created by artist John Lopez.

Try your luck at MGM National Harbor or take in a show. Grab a nightcap at Felt where the mixologists craft seasonal favorites and in-the-moment cocktails in a lively space. Or stop by Blossom for a more relaxed atmosphere where SHARE members can sit back and talk about what they’ve learned from the latest sessions amid the cherry blossoms.

From Asian to Mexican cuisine, National Harbor has endless options for brunch, lunch, and dinner. Check out the laid back Brother Jimmy's BBQ, where you can fill up on appetizers from catfish bites to frickles or grab a smoked brisket sandwich or a platter of pulled pork, but don’t forget the cornbread. Rosa Mexicano has traditional Mexican cuisine, such as ceviche and flautas, and it’s where they make the guacamole tableside. Fogo de Chão offers fare in the Brazilian tradition of churrasco grilling, and dishes of lamb, fish, or chicken that can be paired with a South American wine, beer, or one of their signature cocktails.

Looking for a classic steak or elegant seafood for dinner with locally sourced ingredients, check out Voltaggio Brothers Steak House, and don’t miss out on the blue crab pop tart. Italian lovers should check out Fiorella Italian Kitchen and Pizzeria and those looking for Korean-influenced Southern cuisine shouldn’t miss James Beard Award winner, Chef Edward Lee’s menu at Succotash.

For a taste of the night life, stop by Bobby McKey’s Dueling Piano Bar where the high-energy show is guaranteed to make you laugh and be entertained. Everyone needs a stress reliever now and again. Check out some of the artists here. Want to exercise your analytical skills? Check out Escapology with their immersive experiences in which SHARE members and their colleagues can work together to find clues, decipher codes, and solve puzzles.

SHARE attendees can take in the sights and sounds of the area to rejuvenate their minds with the intricacies of the nation’s history and culture. Over a meal or cocktail, members can discuss the latest technology trends and share their experiences. SHARE Washington, D.C. offers a unique way to experience history and innovate for the future.