In 1975, Earl Pace and David Wimberly acknowledged a scarce minority presence in the up and coming IT Industry. After recognizing the potential for lost opportunity and productivity in their community, the two developed a solution, The Black Data Processing Association (BDPA).

On May 17, 1997 in Hudson, Ohio, the Greater Columbia Area Chapter, Inc. became the 58th Chapter of the National Black Data Processing Associates.

Today BDPA hosts over 53 chapters nationwide and has a member base of more than 2700 strong. BDPA provides a number of services and networking opportunities for success in the IT profession.

Members find the publications, conferences and programs helpful by providing professional development and exposure to the latest advances in the IT Industry.
Through our on-line job databank and career fairs, BDPA links IT hopefuls and professionals with businesses who need them.

BDPA works at the community level to get information in the hands of students who are exploring career options.

BDPA’s software and computer competitions in schools generate interest in the computer field and highlight the career opportunities that are available to students. BDPA provides networking opportunities so can work with sponsoring companies to organize internships and mentoring relationships.

BDPA Education and Technology Foundation