Black Data Processing Associates

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Black Data Processing Associates
Founder(s)	Earl A Pace Jr.
Founded	1975
Key people	Earl A Pace Jr.
Area served	USA
Website	BDPA

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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. Backed by more than 50 chapters in cities throughout the United States, BDPA is widely recognized as the premier organization for African-American information technology professionals. BDPA National headquarters is located in Greenbelt, Maryland.

1 History
2 Programs and Services
3 References
4 External links

[edit] History

Black Data Processing Associates (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.

[edit] Programs and Services

BDPA provides a number of programs and services that support the development and advancement of professionals in the information technology industry.

Career Development

BDPA IT Institute - academic partnership with Auburn University that offers online IT training and professional certification, including the following:

- the BDPA IT Associate (BITA)
- the BDPA IT Professional (BITP)
- the BDPA IT Master (BITM)

BDPA National Technology Conference - annual conference featuring professional development seminars, leading edge technology, networking, competition, and an Awards Gala
BDPA Career Center - comprehensive resource of job postings, resume development, and career coaching

Member Benefits