Ron Michael - Using Open Source as the Glue

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Complex IT environments are even more difficult to understand and synch if your technology includes mainframe and distributed systems. Ron Michael, lead platform administrator in R&D support at BMC Software, wants to help. He currently pens a blog on TalkBMC called "Open for Mainframe" where he uses the topic of open source as the glue linking mainframe and distributed systems. Open source, he says, is an enabling technology that helps bridge the technical gap between the mainframe and distributed worlds. With the rise of Z series Linux on the mainframe and open source continuing to be a hot topic in the distributed world, the idea behind his blog is both timely and wise.

But, that's not all there is to know about Ron Michael. Steve Carl recently wrote about teaming up with Ron, saying "he brought to the table years of mainframe experience, diagnostics, and coding, as well as the kind of holistic understanding one gets from being a well rounded geek. What I am trying to say here is that Ron builds lasers for fun. Real ones. Like for 3D holography and stuff. He is also a machinist. And a helicopter pilot.". Listen in for a fascinating discussion about open source, holography, lasers, and Green IT.

Resources

With over 22 years of previous experience as a programmer and system programmer, both as employee and consultant, Ron Michael began working with BMC Software in 2000. Currently, his role is a Lead Platform Administrator in R&D support. Additionally, he was a consultant to the Optoelectronics lab at the Cullen College of Engineering, University of Houston. Having designed and built microprocessor controlled lab equipment and lasers for use in holography, Ron has enjoyed other technical endeavors. His hobbies include scuba diving, skiing, martial arts, machining, commercial helicopter piloting, video editing, and writing.

Production Credits

• Tom Parish, Audio Producer
• 5 alarm music, intro and outro music