BDPA (formerly known as, 'Black Data Processing Associates') is a non-profit organization of professionals working in or having an interest in the Computer Science and Information Technology fields. Earl Pace and David Wimberly founded BDPA in 1976 as a local association. Within three years, the founders grew BDPA into a national organization with chapters in Philadelphia, Washington DC and Cleveland. Today, there are 46 chapters throughout the United States. We know that 80% of the U.S. jobs created in the next decade will require math and science skills. In fact, 21 of the top 25 paying jobs are in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). The average salary of STEM employees is 70% higher than those in all other occupations. IT Professionals never stop learning and working to advance themselves if they want to advance their career. BDPA can help you move forward in establishing and obtaining your IT career goals. Join BDPA and you are immediately positioned at the center of a nationwide network of IT professionals and executives in the commercial, government, academic, and non-profit sectors. Use our social networks to post technical or business questions, and get assistance from industry experts. The BDPA networks are a storehouse of knowledge resources which members can draw upon to remain at the forfront of the IT industry. A wealth of resources put you on a fast-track to a rewarding career. BDPA offers it members: Online access to job postings; access to BDPA Coach Alliance, career fairs, top-quality instructor-led and online courses, professional workshops and seminars and the Executive Protégé Program. Fortune 500 companies and other forward thinking firms actively participate in chapter events and the national conference. Key executives are ready and waiting to establish a professional relationship with you. Call BDPA on (301) 584-3135 to engage on a local, regional or national basis!