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Mainframe System Operator Bootcamp
Prepare system operators to manage IBM Z environments with confidence
Train your team in the tools, commands, and responsibilities required to operate z/OS systems efficiently. LearnQuest’s hands-on system operator bootcamp builds job-ready skills in JES2, JCL, system utilities, and day-to-day operations.
Why Train System Operators?
Mainframe operations remain critical in industries like finance, insurance, healthcare, logistics, and government. But as experienced operators retire, many organizations face a gap in skills and readiness.
This bootcamp equips learners with the knowledge and practical experience to monitor system activity, respond to console messages, manage jobs, maintain peripherals, and support service continuity in IBM Z environments.
Learn more about this program or explore related mainframe training paths.
Why Mainframe Training is Urgent
71%
of Fortune 500 companies still rely on IBM Z
92
of the top 100 banks and all top 10 global insurers run their core systems on mainframes
68%
of the world’s production IT workloads are processed on mainframes, yet they account for only 6% of IT spend
70%
of Mainframe professionals have over 20 years of experience, signaling a fast-approaching retirement wave
775–850
billion lines
of COBOL remain in active use worldwide, including in finance, government, and logistics
These statistics are compiled from leading industry research organizations including Open Mainframe Project, Micro Focus/Vanson Bourne global surveys, Forrester Research benchmarking studies, Deloitte workforce analysis, and IBM adoption metrics. This multi-source approach provides comprehensive validation of the mainframe skills urgency across different research methodologies and timeframes.
30+ Years Supporting Mainframe Teams Across Industries
LearnQuest has provided authorized mainframe training for more than 30 years, supporting over 100 enterprise clients across finance, insurance, healthcare, logistics, and government.
Curriculum Overview
Core Topics
Introduction to z/OS Environment
Get oriented with IBM Z architecture, system components, and key terminology used in z/OS environments.
Fundamental System Skills in z/OS
Learn to navigate the z/OS interface, manage datasets, and use basic UNIX System Services.
z/OS Facilities
Understand the core facilities of z/OS, including address spaces, storage management, and workload management.
JCL and Utilities
Gain practical skills in using Job Control Language (JCL) and key IBM utilities for executing batch jobs.
z/OS System Operators
Focus on operator responsibilities, including system monitoring, message handling, and responding to critical events.
JES2 Operator Training
Learn to manage jobs in JES2, including job output, queues, and printer configurations.
Optional Modules
REXX Programming Workshop
Automate tasks and create operational scripts using the Restructured Extended Executor (REXX) language.
Hardware Management Console (HMC) Operations
Operate and manage IBM Z hardware using the HMC interface, including system IPL and partition control.
Parallel Sysplex Operations
Learn the basics of Sysplex operation, connectivity, and workload balancing across multiple systems.
Advanced Sysplex Operations & Recovery
Explore advanced recovery procedures, failure scenarios, and best practices in high-availability Sysplex environments.
Intro to Db2 for System & Ops Personnel
Get familiar with IBM Db2 architecture, terminology, and the role of system operators in supporting Db2 environments.
Fully Immersive. Role-Ready.
Phase 1
Core Concepts and Environment Setup
- z/OS overview and system navigation
- ISPF basics and hands-on JCL exercises
- Understanding z/OS facilities and job processing
Phase 2
Job Control, JES2, and Operational Tasks
- Running and modifying JCL jobs
- Using JES2 commands for job and output management
- Monitoring messages and responding to system events
- Hands-on labs for system utilities and operator workflows
Outcomes That Speak for Themselves
By the end of the program, learners will:
- Perform daily operations in a z/OS environment
- Understand system console messages and responses
- Use JCL and JES2 confidently in real-world scenarios
- Operate in alignment with your internal procedures and compliance needs
Learning Support Throughout
- Cumulative Project Work
Each participant builds and documents operator procedures - Weekly Assessments
Structured checkpoints to track understanding and application - Instructor Mentoring
Live support and guidance throughout the program - Pre-Bootcamp Orientation
Optional sessions to prepare learners before day one
Curious how we support learners throughout the process?
Delivery Options
- On-Site Training
Delivered at your location. Use your infrastructure or let LearnQuest provide everything. - Virtual Training
Live instruction and labs delivered through our virtual platform. No travel or setup required.
More than 75% of organizations choose LearnQuest-hosted environments to minimize IT overhead and simplify setup.
Not sure which delivery model is right for your team?
Who Should Attend?
This bootcamp is designed for:
- New hires with little or no IT background
- Career changers entering operations roles
- Staff transitioning from help desk or support into system operations
With the average mainframe operator in their mid-40s or older, this program helps organizations build the next generation of IBM Z support talent.
Need help evaluating whether this program fits your team?
Benefits for Your Team and Business
Get Expert Help with Mainframe Upskilling
Tell us what your team needs. We’ll tailor a bootcamp around your systems, scheduling, and operational priorities. Start by filling out the form below. A LearnQuest advisor will follow up with a personalized training plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can this bootcamp be customized?
Yes. We tailor content to your systems, processes, and tools.
Do learners need prior IT experience?
No. This program is beginner-friendly and supports new hires or career switchers.
What are the delivery formats?
On-site, virtual, or hybrid. Most clients use LearnQuest-hosted environments for simplicity.
What’s included?
Courseware, lab access, live instruction, mentoring, assessments, and optional pre-training seminars.