History

BDPA Over 30 Years of Advancing Careers
BDPA was founded in 1975 by Earl A. Pace, Jr. and the late David Wimberly after the two met in Philadelphia to discuss their concerns about minorities in the data processing field. There was a lack of minorities in middle and upper management, low recruitment and poor preparation of minorities for these positions, and an overall lack of career mobility.

Through ceaseless drive and personal networking, the founders built an organization of 35 members, hosted presentations to improve data processing skills and launched a job opportunities announcement service. This nucleus has grown to over 55 chapters throughout the United States and thousands of members.

Today, BDPA is a global member focused organization that serves the professional well-being of its stakeholders. BDPA remains committed to excellence and providing a wide spectrum of resources to members, corporate sponsors, businesses, educational institutions and the community. The organization is a catalyst for professional growth and technical development for those in the IT industry.

To explore BDPA's history of impacting careers, read testimonials from those who have been enriched by their experience and see BDPA in action.

Giving Back

Commitment is a Two-way Street
Many of our members will tell you that their biggest joy in belonging to BDPA comes from what they can give back to the organization and the community.

BDPA's success rests squarely on the shoulders of member volunteers. There are many rewarding opportunities to give back and enhance BDPA's operations. You can make a difference in one of the following areas, while improving your leadership and management skills:

• Recruit members
• Supporting technical skills development
• Become a mentor or career coach
• Recruit, train and motivate high school and college students
• Take on a leadership role in your chapter
• Volunteer for a national project

Life is what you make it, and so is BDPA. When you join BDPA, we have two questions for you.

• What can BDPA do to help advance your career?
• How can you help make BDPA a stronger organization?