Demystifying COBOL: Insights from a Veteran Creator
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Chapter 1: Introduction to the Creator
Donna M. Jennings hails from Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, where she was born and raised. She currently resides there with her husband, two adult daughters, two dogs, and a cat. Donna is the mind behind two websites: www.demystifyingCOBOL.com and www.DMAEJSolutions.com, and she frequently shares her thoughts on Medium under the username @donnaj127.
Having spent over 26 years as a COBOL system designer and programmer in an IBM Mainframe environment, Donna has faced numerous intriguing challenges. Despite often being overlooked, COBOL remains a significant and respected programming language in the tech industry globally.
Section 1.1: A Unique Perspective
Donna's experience grants her a distinctive viewpoint. As a member of the Baby Boomer generation, she bridges the gap between this group and Generation X. Additionally, she dabbled in Java programming for several years during her career, providing her with insights into the differences and similarities between Java and COBOL. As a woman in tech, she is eager to share her journey and the evolution of the field over time.
Subsection 1.1.1: Insights on Women in Technology
Section 1.2: Encouraging Discussions
Donna aims to foster conversations focused on COBOL, touching on various themes such as workplace dynamics, types of employees, the interplay of new and old technologies, the role of women in tech, and more.
Chapter 2: A Passion for COBOL
With a genuine affection for the COBOL programming culture, Donna emphasizes how it has offered numerous individuals, herself included, a sustainable career path. Her views stem from her extensive experience in COBOL development, complemented by her academic background, which includes a Bachelor of Arts, a Bachelor of Commerce, and a Programming Diploma.
Like industry leaders such as Ginni Rometty, Donna aspires to continue growing and evolving, never settling into complacency.