European Mainframe Academy

What European Mainframe Academy does

European Mainframe Academy GmbH (EMA) is a Berlin-headquartered, privately-held specialized IT training company that delivers continuing education for IBM Z mainframe technology. Founded in 2008 with roots in the IT-Akademie in Augsburg (mainframe training since 2001), EMA was acquired by Beta Systems Software AG in July 2024 and operates as a subsidiary within the Beta Systems Gruppe. The company serves enterprise IT departments, academic institutions, and IT leadership, primarily in the DACH region, with international expansion from 2025.

The product portfolio comprises five certified multi-month program tracks (IBM Mainframe System Practitioner, Operator, Professional, Linux on Z, and Manager seminar), over 20 specialized modules covering z/OS administration, CICS, Db2, RACF, USS, JCL, storage, performance, Java on Z, and DevOps, plus executive seminars. Delivery runs on a proprietary Blended Learning model combining self-paced video content, live virtual classroom sessions on Microsoft Teams, materials hosted in Moodle LMS, and optional in-person kick-off and wrap-up workshops. Practical training leverages a real IBM z14 machine at the University of Leipzig, distinguishing EMA from simulator-based competitors. Certifications are issued as Open Badges digital credentials. Per-participant pricing spans €2,070–€17,900 with automatic volume discounts (2nd participant ~20% off, 3rd+ ~40% off) and staggered payment for courses longer than six months.

EMA monetizes through two primary streams: public course enrollment via self-serve booking (booking.seminardesk.de), and customized corporate in-house training economical from 4-5 participants. Named customers include Finanz Informatik, Credit Suisse, Commerzbank, and PKS Software, concentrated in financial services IT and software firms. Go-to-market combines direct online sales, enterprise direct sales, partner referrals (IBM, BMC, Beta Systems, regional partners), academic outreach, free top-of-funnel webinars, and content marketing via the company blog and LinkedIn. As of disclosure, approximately 300 mainframe specialists have been trained cumulatively since founding.

Name

European Mainframe Academy

Legal name

European Mainframe Academy GmbH

Website

https://mainframe-academy.de

Company type

Private

Founded year

2008

Operating status

Operating

Headcount range

1–10 employees

Short description

European Mainframe Academy GmbH is a Berlin-based specialized IT training company delivering certified IBM Z mainframe programs, modules, and executive seminars via a blended learning model to enterprise IT departments and academic institutions, primarily in the DACH financial services and software sectors.

Ownership category

akta.pro rank

Product category

IT Training and Professional Education

NAICS

Computer Training (611420), Professional and Management Development Training (611430)

SIC

Services-Educational Services (8200)

akta.pro primary industry

Software Development (Programming, Frameworks, Dev Tools) (EDABAFAA)

akta.pro secondary industry

Software Engineering & Application Development Training (Languages, Frameworks, Testing) (BPAEANAI)

Keywords

• Mainframe training
• IBM Z education
• Z/OS certification
• IT professional development
• Mainframe skills training

Headquarters

HQ city

Hamburg

HQ country

Germany

HQ region

Europe

Offices1 record

Markets served

GTM type

B2B

Offering type

Services

Cost components

Personnel, Technology or R&D, Marketing or Sales, Operations, Infrastructure

Revenue model

1. Public Training Courses: Individual course fees for open enrollment programs including Lehrgänge (programs), Module (specialization modules), and Seminare (seminars). Tiered pricing with discounts for multiple participants from the same organization. Prices range from €2,070 to €17,900 per participant depending on course type and duration.
2. Corporate/Inhouse Training: Customized training programs delivered at client premises or online for enterprise clients. Tailored to specific company needs, covering internal topics, multiple employees, with flexible scheduling to minimize business disruption.

Pricing tiers

Go-to-market motion1 record

Distribution channels3 records

Marketing channels6 records

Core offering

European Mainframe Academy GmbH delivers structured, certified training programs for IBM Z mainframe and z/OS technologies. The offering is organized into Lehrgänge (intensive multi-month certification programs), Module (focused specialization courses on topics such as CICS, Db2, RACF, REXX, USS, z/OSMF, Java, DevOps, and Assembler), and Seminare (in-person workshops for managers and architects). Delivery uses a proprietary Blended Learning approach combining self-paced video content, live virtual classroom sessions via Microsoft Teams, materials via Moodle LMS, and optional in-person workshops, with practical training on real IBM z14 hardware rather than simulators.

Product overview

European Mainframe Academy offers a structured portfolio of IBM mainframe training programs consisting of five intensive certified 'Lehrgang' (program) tracks as the core offerings, supplemented by over 30 specialized 'Module' (course) products covering focused topics from TSO/REXX scripting to CICS, Db2, z/OSMF, security, Java, and DevOps, and two in-person 'Seminar' workshop products for managers and architects. All offerings are delivered via an innovative Blended Learning approach combining self-study videos and materials with live online sessions, a virtual classroom, and optional wrap-up workshops. Programs are available in German and English, can earn EMA digital badges and certificates, and are offered both as public scheduled courses and as customized in-house corporate training. Free webinars provide supplementary expert content.

Differentiator

Problem solved

Functional benefit

Products and services

• IBM Mainframe System Practitioner (DE) Intensive 4-month certification program (160 hours) focused on efficient practical introduction to working with the z/OS operating system. Covers IBM Z mainframe architecture, TSO/ISPF, JCL, and key subsystems. Designed for administrators and developers with no prerequisites. Earns EMA certification. Next start: October 6, 2026.
• IBM Mainframe System Practitioner (EN) English-language equivalent of the Practitioner certification program, 4 months and 160 hours, providing efficient practical introduction to working with the z/OS operating system. Available on request.
• IBM Mainframe System Operator (DE) German-language program teaching the fundamentals of system operations for IBM Z Mainframe z/OS environments and subsystems. Covers Db2, CICS, security, networking, storage, USS, monitoring, and Parallel Sysplex. 5 months, 200 hours. Available on request.
• IBM Mainframe System Professional (EMA Certified) (DE) Intensive German-language training for future system specialists responsible for system planning, administration, maintenance, and operations. Covers I/O, security/RACF, modernization, system programming, communication server, virtualization, z/VM, Linux, USS, WLM, RMF, and more. 12 months, 480 hours, EMA certified. Available on request.
• Linux on IBM Z Professional (DE) Intensive German-language program covering all key aspects of operating IBM Z systems in combination with Linux and other open-source software. 9 months, 360 hours. Available on request.
• TSO/E REXX (DE) German-language module teaching the REXX scripting language (combined with TSO/E) used in mainframe environments. Covers REXX program structure and creation of administration programs. 6 weeks, 60 hours. Next start: September 8, 2026.
• CICS Transaction Server for z/OS Advanced (DE) German-language advanced module enabling participants to independently plan a CICS installation and implement a CICS Transaction Server. Covers installation, resource definitions, region setup, operations, and modern interfaces. 8 weeks, 80 hours. Next start: September 14, 2026.
• z/OSMF in Practice (EN) English-language module on IBM's z/OS Management Framework covering architecture, WLM, workflow automation, ISPF Gateway, software management, performance monitoring, and Python automation for DevOps/CI/CD integration. 5 weeks, 50 hours. Next start: September 29, 2026.
• Unix System Services (DE) German-language module providing a comprehensive overview of USS functions, management, and practical usage on z/OS. Covers POSIX standards, hierarchical file system, shells, utilities, RACF integration, and application development. 6 weeks, 60 hours. Next start: October 6, 2026.
• z/OS Installation & Maintenance (DE) German-language module covering z/OS installation and maintenance including system planning, configuration, SMP/E concepts (libraries, zones, error analysis), product installation, and PTF application. 6 weeks, 60 hours. Next start: October 6, 2026.
• EMA Certified z/OS Storage Management Professional (DE) German-language EMA-certified module covering z/OS storage management in DFSMS, Hierarchical Storage Manager, and storage automation. 12 weeks, 120 hours. Available on request.
• Mainframe Architecture for Managers (EN) English-language vendor-neutral module providing a comprehensive overview of IBM mainframe technology, covering architecture, Linux on mainframe, databases, application development, virtualization, clustering, and big data. 3 days. Available on request.
• Der moderne Mainframe (DE) Three-day German-language in-person seminar on mainframe modernization covering system-side modernization, architecture, application development, DevOps, and AI scenarios. Features experts from SQ Solutions, Living Mainframe, CROZ, InfoDesign, IBM, and EMA. Fee: 3,500 EUR per participant. Next start: September 29, 2026.
• Mainframe Architektur für Führungskräfte (DE) Vendor-neutral three-day German-language seminar providing executives with an overview of IBM mainframe technology including advantages and disadvantages, architecture, Linux on mainframe, databases, virtualization, clustering, transaction processing, and big data. Fee: 3,300 EUR. Next start: October 13, 2026.
• Inhouse Schulungen (Corporate In-House Training) Customized in-house IT training services for mainframe topics, tailored to company-specific needs. Combines EMA's teaching methods with expert trainers for flexible scheduling and cost-effective group training starting from 4-5 participants. Delivered at client premises or online.

Quantifiable outcome

• ~300 mainframe specialists trained to date
• +1 more outcomes

Named customers6 records

Segments4 records

Ideal customer profiles3 records

API detail

Has API

No

API docs

API detail

Core technology

AI maturity

App detail

Feature4 records

Partnerships

Eleven partnerships are on record, tiered core, supporting and minor.

• Beta Systems GruppecoreStrategic or Co-development Partner · 4 July 2024EMA European Mainframe Academy GmbH became part of the Beta Systems Gruppe in July 2024. Beta Systems Software AG (via subsidiary Beta Systems DCI Software AG) acquired EMA, strengthening EMA's position as leading competence center for mainframe and hybrid cloud continuing education in German-speaking markets.
• IBMcoreTechnology or IntegrationIBM is a strategic partner providing technology access and potentially referring customers. EMA offers IBM-aligned training curricula covering IBM Z systems and z/OS. IBM logo appears on partner page.
• BMC SoftwaresupportingTechnology or IntegrationBMC is listed as a partner on EMA's partner page. BMC provides mainframe management software and solutions.
• SyspertecsupportingTechnology or IntegrationSyspertec is listed as a partner, providing mainframe-related technology expertise and solutions.
• HorizontminorGTM or Marketing PartnerHorizont is listed as a partner on EMA's partner page.
• ARS Computer und ConsultingsupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorARS Computer und Consulting is listed as a partner, likely referring customers or providing localized services.
• PKS SoftwaresupportingChannel Partner/ Reseller/ DistributorPKS Software GmbH is a long-standing customer and partner, providing feedback on training effectiveness and referring other clients.
• SQ SolutionssupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerSQ Solutions participates in EMA's 'Der moderne Mainframe' seminar as a subject matter expert contributor, providing insights on mainframe modernization.
• CROZsupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerCROZ is listed as a partner and contributes to EMA seminars as a mainframe modernization expert, alongside experts from SQ Solutions, Living Mainframe, InfoDesign, and IBM.
• Living MainframesupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerLiving Mainframe participates as an expert contributor in EMA seminars on mainframe modernization topics.
• InfoDesignsupportingStrategic or Co-development PartnerInfoDesign participates as an expert contributor in EMA's 'Der moderne Mainframe' seminar series alongside other mainframe experts.

Scale indicators5 records

Recent moves6 records

Expansion highlights5 records

Broad incumbents

• Skillsoft: Enterprise corporate training and talent development platform offering IT, leadership, and compliance content. Targets enterprise L&D budgets similar to EMA but competes as a broad incumbent rather than a specialist, with limited deep-mainframe offerings.
• Global Knowledge: Global IT training provider delivering vendor-authorized courses from IBM, AWS, Cisco, and others. A substantial incumbent competitor for enterprise IT training wallets, particularly where IBM-authorized credentials are preferred.
• Learning Tree International: Established IT and management training provider serving enterprise and government clients worldwide. Comparable in B2B public-course model but with limited IBM Z specialization; competes for the same corporate learning budgets.
• INE (formerly CBT Nuggets): Broad IT and cybersecurity training platform with enterprise offerings including some IBM and infrastructure content. Competes for the same corporate training budget but lacks EMA's depth in IBM Z mainframe specialization.
• Pluralsight: Public, large-scale technology skills platform covering cloud, DevOps, security, and IT infrastructure. Some mainframe and enterprise systems content, but EMA's z/OS depth and hands-on hardware model are differentiated versus Pluralsight's on-demand video library.

Regional players

• ITLS (IT-Logix): Swiss-based IBM training partner delivering official IBM Z and Power Systems instruction across DACH. Direct overlap with EMA's territory and customer profile, though focused on IBM-issued certifications rather than EMA's proprietary blended learning tracks.

Emerging players

• RSM Partners: UK-based mainframe security and training specialist serving large enterprises globally. Comparable in target audience (mainframe-dependent banks, insurers) and specialization depth, though more focused on security and compliance than full-stack z/OS curricula.
• Marble Computing: UK-based IBM Z consultancy providing hands-on training and modernization services. Smaller than EMA, with overlapping customer base in European banks and a focus on practical mainframe enablement, but offering consultancy-plus-training rather than a public curriculum catalog.

Direct peers

• Interskill Learning: Australian-based e-learning company specializing exclusively in IBM mainframe training (z/OS, CICS, Db2, WebSphere). Closest direct competitor to EMA, with global online delivery and a similar vendor-aligned curriculum, though Interskill is more self-paced and less instructor-led.
• IBM Training (IBM Skills / IBM Learning): IBM's own training arm offers vendor-authorized IBM Z curriculum, badges, and certifications across the same z/OS stack EMA teaches. Represents the most direct competitive alternative for enterprise buyers who prefer official IBM credentials over EMA-certified credentials.

Market position

Strengths5 records

Weaknesses5 records

Competitive moat4 records

Key risks6 records

Key highlights6 records

Customer concentration

• LinkedInlinkedin.com/company/ema-european-mainframe-academy-gmbh

Revenue estimate

Valuation estimate

Number of profiles

Profiles2 records

Funding overview

Funding rounds

Investors

Funding detail is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

M&A

Investments

M&A and investment is available on the Subscription and Enterprise plan.Contact sales →

Frequently asked questions about European Mainframe Academy