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Misty Decker
Product Marketing Director at Micro Focus
Professional Background
Misty Decker is a seasoned professional with over 29 years of extensive experience in the technology sector, particularly in mainframe computing. With a profound background at IBM, where she held a multitude of roles ranging from Development Manager to Product Marketing Director, Misty has continually contributed to the evolution of COBOL applications and mainframe technologies. Currently, she is leveraging her wealth of experience at Micro Focus, where she plays a pivotal role in communicating the importance of COBOL in modern IT environments. By telling the compelling story of COBOL, Misty emphasizes the significance and relevance of this venerable programming language, especially in the current context of digital transformation and modernization initiatives.
Education and Achievements
Misty's educational accomplishments have laid a strong foundation for her career in information systems and project management. She earned her Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Systems from Marist College, where she deepened her understanding of technology's role in strategic organizational processes. Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Mathematics from Virginia Tech, which has honed her analytical and problem-solving skills, essential in the tech industry.
Moreover, to further enhance her expertise in managing projects effectively, she completed a Master’s Certificate in Project Management at The George Washington University. This diverse educational background equips her with both the technical knowledge and managerial acumen necessary for steering complex projects and leading teams within the mainframe domain.
Career Journey at IBM
At IBM, Misty's journey began in roles that laid the groundwork for her deep understanding of mainframe technologies. She first took on responsibilities as a Project Manager for zSeries Customer Satisfaction, engaging with clients to ensure their needs were met and their experiences were optimized.
She transitioned into the role of z/OS Release Manager, overseeing the latest updates and enhancements of IBM’s z/OS operating system, significantly contributing to the evolution of mainframe computing. Her expertise expanded further when she became the Development Manager, where she guided teams of engineers in thriving projects that drove innovation in COBOL applications.
Further highlighting her versatility, Misty served as the Program Manager for the IBM Z Master the Mainframe initiative, an educational program designed for students and technologists to gain hands-on experience with mainframe technology. In this capacity, she developed training modules and resources that are critical for nurturing the next generation of mainframe professionals.
Additionally, she held the position of Program Manager for the IBM Z Academic Initiative, an essential program fostering collaboration between academia and IBM by integrating mainframe education into university curricula. These roles reflect her commitment to promoting the importance of mainframe knowledge and expertise among emerging professionals.
Current Role at Micro Focus
Now at Micro Focus, Misty channels her extensive experience and passion for innovation into her role as Product Marketing Director. Here, she is not just promoting products but is actively engaging with clients and stakeholders to share insights on future trends in COBOL and how modernization can benefit organizations with legacy systems. Her ability to convey the value of COBOL in a rapidly changing technological landscape is vital for helping businesses understand their options for modern application development and maintenance. Through strategic marketing initiatives, she aims to foster a deeper appreciation for COBOL and its significant impact on enterprise applications today.
Notable Achievements
Misty’s impressive career is marked by several notable achievements that underline her leadership and commitment to the technology field. Through her initiatives at IBM, she has successfully transformed educational programs, making mainframe technology more accessible to students and professionals alike. Her work has not only enhanced awareness but has also stimulated interest in COBOL and the mainframe environment, ensuring its relevance in today's fast-paced digital landscape.
Misty is also a proud advocate for the mainframe industry, engaging in various forums and conferences to discuss the future of enterprise IT and the crucial role of COBOL within it. Her contributions have established her as a thought leader and influencer in the community, with a reputation for fostering innovation and collaboration among tech professionals.
Through her unique blend of technical knowledge, marketing expertise, and passion for educational initiatives, Misty Decker continues to drive the narrative around COBOL, working tirelessly to ensure that its legacy and capabilities are not only recognized but also embraced by the next generation of technologists.
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