On March 2, 1982, Steve York launched Contract Professionals, Inc. with an entrepreneurial vision and a firm belief in the power of people.
He did not set out simply to build a staffing company.
He set out to build relationships, create opportunity, and support the industries that keep America moving.
Forty-four years later, that mission continues to define CPI.
Today, we celebrate CPI’s 44th Anniversary — a milestone shaped by perseverance, trusted partnerships, and an unwavering commitment to connecting talent with purpose.
A Foundation Built on People
From its earliest days in Metro Detroit, CPI focused on delivering skilled talent to organizations operating at the heart of American industry. Defense, automotive, manufacturing, and technology companies relied on expertise, precision, and reliability — and CPI built its reputation by delivering all three.
CPI Founder,Steve York established a culture grounded in integrity, accountability, and long-term commitment.
“We built CPI on relationships and trust,” York said. “Our success has always come from putting people first — our employees, our clients, and the candidates who depend on us to help shape their careers.”
That philosophy became the company’s foundation and remains central to CPI’s identity today.
Strength Forged Through Change
Over four decades, CPI has operated through some of the most challenging economic periods in modern history. Market downturns, industry transformation, and global disruption tested organizations across every sector.
CPI met those moments with discipline and focus.
During the 2008 financial crisis, CPI protected its mission while maintaining critical partnerships. During the COVID-19 pandemic, CPI continued supporting essential defense and industrial programs, ensuring workforce continuity for clients performing mission-critical work.
Each challenge reinforced the company’s defining principle: resilience comes from people working together toward a shared purpose.
Leadership for the Next Era
As CPI enters its fifth decade, President Jack W. Van Tiem continues to lead the organization forward — strengthening operational excellence while positioning CPI for sustainable growth.
“Our history gives us perspective, but our responsibility is to the future,” said Van Tiem. “We are building on decades of experience while investing in innovation, talent, and partnerships that will define the next generation of workforce solutions.”
Under his leadership, CPI continues to expand capabilities, modernize talent strategies, and support evolving workforce demands across advanced manufacturing, defense innovation, and emerging technologies.
A Culture That Endures
CPI’s longevity reflects more than business success. It reflects loyalty, shared values, and a culture sustained by people who believe in the company’s mission.
Many CPI employees have dedicated decades of service to the organization — a testament to an environment built on collaboration, professionalism, and mutual respect.
Every placement represents more than filling a role. It represents opportunity created, teams strengthened, and careers advanced.
Moving Forward — Together
Forty-four years after its founding, CPI remains guided by the same purpose that launched the company in 1982: helping people succeed while supporting organizations solving complex challenges.
“What makes CPI special,” York reflected, “is that we’ve never lost sight of why we started — creating opportunity and building lasting relationships.”
As industries evolve and workforce demands grow more complex, CPI remains committed to delivering talent solutions that move businesses forward and open doors for the professionals who power them.
Today, we celebrate our past.
Tomorrow, we continue building the future.
Happy 44th Anniversary, Contract Professionals, Inc.
