COMMON POWERUp 2026

Code for IBM i, the popular open source extension that brings modern IBM i development to VS Code is developed and maintained by developers, for developers. Why not join that community driven project ? More than 50 people already did and contributed to it, so, come on, join the fun ! There are many ways to contribute, not only through code but also by submitting ideas or bug reports, writing documentation or just spreading the word about how nice it is! Through this session given by some of the extension's Core Team members, step through the looking glass and come discover what the Open Source model has to offer and how you, too, can join the adventure. It doesn't matter if you're a developer or not - everyone is welcome!

Learning Objectives:

`- Understand what "open source project" means - Discover how the Code for IBM i project is managed - Meet the core team - Discover how to contribute to this project or others

The fear is real. AI can now write code, generate documentation, and handle tasks that once required skilled developers. So what happens to your career? Here's the truth: AI won't replace developers who know how to leverage it - it will only make them more valuable. In this session, we'll show you exactly how AI can multiply your value rather than diminish it. You'll see live demonstrations of developers using AI to tackle work they've never done before, from writing RPG code without RPG experience to generating complete documentation in minutes to automatically generating regression test code. We'll share real stories from our team about the transition from skepticism to enthusiastic adoption, including the specific moment when everything clicked. You'll learn practical strategies for integrating AI into your workflow, understanding what AI does well versus where human expertise remains critical, and positioning yourself as the developer who bridges traditional systems with AI-powered innovation. Whether you're worried about job security or ready to embrace the future, you'll leave with concrete steps to make yourself more valuable than ever.

Learning Objectives:
Attendees will understand how AI tools enhance rather than replace developer value. They will see ways that AI can eliminate many of the boring and painful tasks (eg. documentation and writing test cases) while freeing them for more creative work. They'll learn specific techniques for leveraging AI while enhancing code quality, see real examples of productivity improvements, and develop strategies for becoming AI-proficient developers who are more valuable to their organizations.

IBM i security doesn’t have to be a black box. This session empowers you to take control of your system’s security using the built-in tools of Navigator for i. Whether you're just starting out or refining your expertise, we’ll guide you through essential elements like authority management, object security, audit trails, function usage, and authentication. You’ll learn best practices, how to configure secure settings, and how to use IBM i SQL services to deep dive into activity on your system and strengthen your security. Walk away with actionable insights and hands-on knowledge to confidently secure your IBM i environment. Take aways from this session ️ Apply best practices for Secure Configuration Leverage built-in tools for Monitoring ️How to use Function Usage to enhance your security Sample SQL queries

Learning Objectives:

️ Apply best practices for Secure Configuration Leverage built-in tools for Monitoring ️How to use Function Usage to enhance your security Sample SQL queries

This session is designed to allow you to look through the eyes of a former black hat.

Learning Objectives:

In this session you will learn more about the different type of attackers and what there motivations are. How the large cyber crime organizations operate. Tactics and tools that hackers use to gain access to environments How quantum computers are going to change the data protection and encryption requirements. How the large cyber crime organizations operate.

The importance of using Function Usage was magnified in IBM 7.6. During this session Carol will describe Function Usage (formerly known as Application Administration) and how to use it to add another layer of security to your IBM i Security strategy.


Learning Objectives:

• Understand how to access Function Usage

• Learn what Function Usage controls

• Understand what was added in IBM i 7.6