007 - Modernizing Legacy Code at Scale: How Semantic Designs Tackles 10M+ Line Migrations w CEO Ira Baxter

Episode notes

Legacy code is everywhere—but few know how to modernize it without breaking everything. In this episode of Pitch, Build, Scale , Chris Fanchi talks with Ira Baxter , CEO of Semantic Designs, about the art and science of software transformation. From rewriting 10 million lines of COBOL to building transformation engines that rival compilers, Ira shares 40+ years of insight into why most modernization projects fail—and what it takes to succeed. Whether you’re a software leader navigating legacy debt or just curious how massive systems evolve, this episode is packed with stories, strategies, and bold truths you won’t hear anywhere else.