The Jackson Chapter of the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP) recently named Tony Bailey as “Mississippian of the Year” at the organization’s 2006 awards banquet. The award, given annually, recognizes outstanding contributions to the field of information processing in conjunction with the fact that the development of new information technologies promotes a positive image for Mississippi.
Bailey was recognized for professional contributions at both the both local and national levels. His twenty-six years of industry experience have been marked with numerous accolades. In 2005, his company, Business Communications, Inc., (BCI) was recognized as a “Best Places to Work in Mississippi” Finalist by the Mississippi Business Journal in partnership with Southern Research Group and The Mississippi Society for Human Resource Management.
BCI had previously been recognized by the Mississippi Business Journal as one of the “Top 100 Mississippi Companies.” Bailey’s personal accomplishments have included being named “Rookie of the Year” by Data General Corporation in 1986 and being included in that organization’s “Million Dollar Club” for the years 1986–1990.
Bailey founded BCI in 1994 and has grown the business to a point that its reputation is that of a progressive and highly innovative technology company. In making their decision to name Bailey as the AITP “Mississippian of the Year,” jurists’ comments included, “Tony has achieved a reputation for excellence and quality leading edge technology through his company. He promotes the entrepreneurial spirit vital to our state by identifying and enabling new technology ideas to develop here.” Another jurist stated, “He has always pushed professionalism and measurable standards through certifications for his staff and continuing education.”
The Association of Information Technology Professionals offers opportunities for leadership and education through partnerships with industry, government and academia. The Jackson chapter is among the oldest in the nation, founded more than 50 years ago, under the auspices of the National Machine Accountants Association. With the advent of mainframe computers, the national organization’s name was changed to the Data Processing Management Association, and, in 1997, it became know as the Association of Information Technology Professionals (AITP).
Previous AITP “Mississippian of the Year” winners include former Governor William F. Winter, the late Dr. Arthur C. Guyton and John Palmer.