The z/Education! Podcast – Episode 8

This episode features Scott Piersall, a lecturer at the University of North Florida’s School of Computing. Scott’s journey into academia is anything but traditional—after high school, he had no plans to attend college. But after years of experience in the industry, he discovered a passion for teaching and is now pursuing a Ph.D. with a focus on machine learning. 

The lifelong learning takeaway? Keep your mind and options open—to new ideas, new directions, and new possibilities. 

Scott encourages his students to be bold, reminding them: “The answer is always No until you ask.” His message to mainframe professionals thinking about moving into academia is just as clear: “Don’t hesitate! Go for it—it’s fun and deeply rewarding!” 

🎧 Don’t miss this compelling conversation with Scott! 

Resources 

Visit the IBM Z Educator Hub User Group on the IBM Z and LinuxONE Community for IBM Z educators to find the latest communications, news and events, as well as collaborate and network. Check out technical lecture’s, blogs, events, videos, discussions, and more.  

Join here 

Subscribe to “The z/Education!” Podcast. Each month we talk to IBM Z Educators from around the world on their success stories, journeys and their best practices.