Felix Scott named in Top 4 Influential Mainframers of 2025

This year, Planet Mainframe received a record-breaking 147 nominations from 15 countries for it’s list of 2025 Influential Mainframers, showcasing the global strength of the mainframe community. From this outstanding group, 44 individuals were recognized as 2025 honorees, with an additional 33 earning honorable mentions for their continued contributions to the ecosystem.

Vertali Technical Consultant (NTZ), Felix Scott was voted one of the top 4, with Security Consultant Niall Ashley and Technical Delivery Manager Leanne Wilson featured in the list of 40 people named as Influential Mainframers.

Planet Mainframe describes Felix as “A rising star from Vertali’s New to Z program, proving that curiosity and humility are powerful assets for a new generation.”

Felix, a 27-year-old trainee, is quickly making a name for himself in the global mainframe community by embracing curiosity, humility, and a deep passion for learning. Inspired by his father’s career and armed with a computer science degree, Felix has rapidly adapted to the mainframe world – earning praise for his technical aptitude and self-driven projects. He thrives in the collaborative, welcoming culture of Vertali and the mainframe ecosystem, openly tackling a steep learning curve and encouraging newcomers to ask questions and engage fully. Thoughtful about broader tech issues like cloud hype and system security, Felix represents a new generation of mainframers who are reshaping industry perceptions while building enduring, relevant skills.

Niall Ashley is increasingly visible in the mainframe community with technical contributions and a commitment to making the platform more approachable and future-ready. As an IBM Champion and active community contributor, he has authored more than 24 articles across platforms including LinkedIn, WAVEZ, and the IBM Community. Niall has delivered nine sessions and joined four expert panels at major industry events such as GSE UK and IBM TechXchange. His thought leadership also extends to podcast appearances on TishTalksTech and Diary of a Mainframer.

Leanne Wilson is a transformative force in the industry – creating practical, accessible pathways for newcomers while championing inclusion, mentorship, and cybersecurity. Through one-on-one support, university outreach, and thought leadership in publications like TechChannel and Planet Mainframe, she demystifies the mainframe and makes it relevant for a new generation. As a supporter of the Vertali Mainframe Shield initiative, she npromotes vendor-neutral cybersecurity education, and as GS UK’s new Conference Manager, she’s actively reshaping community events to be more welcoming and diverse. Quietly impactful, Leanne is helping the mainframe evolve – with space for everyone.

Find the full list of 2025 Mainframe Influencers on the Planet Mainframe site here.