Today marks the 15th anniversary of DP Professionals, headquartered in Columbia, SC.

What is Barbara Blau, president and founder of DP Professionals, most proud of? “Our reputation,” she said. “Over the years, we’ve developed wonderful relationships with people and companies in South Carolina. We’ve built a high caliber consulting staff.”

“Columbia is a great destination,” she said. “It has a lot to offer people who want to maintain a work-life balance, which is important for attracting top technical talent.”

Blau is actively involved in workforce development in the Midlands. She is the past chair of the Midlands Education and Business Alliance (MEBA), and the Midlands Middle College.

“Recruiting is changing,” said Blau, reflecting on the staffing industry. “We need to continue using traditional ways of attracting candidates, while incorporating newer social media tools in recruiting.”

“What has made DP Professionals thrive for 15 years is our desire to ‘do the right thing’ for our clients and candidates,” says Sharon Lenge, DPP’s director of operations. “If you follow that basic principle, success will always follow.”

Looking to the future, Blau is expanding DPP into new markets outside of South Carolina. She is also interested in opportunities for retraining military veterans and civilians to enter the IT workforce.