Founded 1975 Area served United States Website BDPA | Founder Earl A. Pace, Jr. Key people Leadership | |
Slogan "Advancing Careers From the Classroom to the Boardroom." | ||
Black Data Processing Associates (BDPA) is a non-profit organization that serves the professional well-being of its stakeholders. BDPA provides resources that support the professional growth and technical development of individuals in the information technology industry. Through education and leadership, BDPA promotes innovation, business skills, and professional development. The organization has over 50 chapters throughout the United States. BDPA National headquarters is located in Largo, Maryland.
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History
BDPA was founded in 1975 by Earl A. Pace, Jr. and David Wimberly after the two met in Philadelphia to discuss their concerns about ethnic minorities in the data processing field. The founders cited 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.
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 50 chapters throughout the United States and thousands of members. The organization is a catalyst for professional growth and technical development for those in the IT industry.
BDPA High School Computer Competition
The National High School Computer Competition (HSCC) was founded in 1986. The competition started as a two-team event between Washington, DC and Atlanta, GA, and now has over 20 teams from chapters throughout the nation.