A Veteran's Legacy: CPI Founder Steve York Retires, Passing the Torch After 44 Years

WATERFORD, MI – May 22, 2026 – After more than four decades at the helm, Steve York, the founder of Contract Professionals, Inc. (CPI), has announced his retirement, marking the end of an era for the veteran-founded talent solutions company. The U.S. Air Force veteran built the firm from a personal mission into a national leader in specialized staffing. The company will continue its operations under the leadership of Jack W. Van Tiem, who steps into the role of President and CEO, ensuring a seamless transition for the organization known for its deep-rooted culture and commitment to service.

A Mission Forged in Service

For Steve York, the journey began not in a boardroom, but from a place of personal commitment. After serving in the U.S. Air Force, York founded CPI on March 2, 1982, with a singular, deeply personal goal: helping fellow military veterans find meaningful employment. What started as one man's vision grew into a powerhouse talent solutions firm that has, for over 40 years, bridged the gap between skilled professionals and employers across a wide array of high-demand sectors.

Under York’s guidance, CPI expanded its reach far beyond its initial focus, becoming a critical partner for companies in defense, mobility, engineering, information technology, and professional services. The company's specialized, award-winning veteran recruitment process became a cornerstone of its identity, successfully translating military operation codes and skills into civilian job requirements. This dedicated approach has enabled CPI to place veterans in roles across the globe, from domestic assignments to positions in Afghanistan, Iraq, Egypt, and Canada. The firm’s long-standing status as a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) is not just a certification, but a reflection of the DNA York embedded in the company from its first day.

The Culture of 'Doing It Right'

Beyond building a successful business, Steve York cultivated a distinct and enduring corporate culture. The guiding principle at CPI became a simple but powerful phrase he lived by: “Do it right the first time.” This ethos permeated every level of the organization, shaping its reputation for integrity, meticulous follow-through, and unwavering reliability in the competitive technical recruiting market.

This commitment to excellence was about more than just process; it was about people. “CPI was never just about filling jobs,” York stated. “It was about people, relationships, trust, and helping our clients succeed. I am incredibly proud of what this company has become, and I am grateful for every employee, client, candidate, and partner who has been part of the journey.”

This people-first approach fostered remarkable loyalty, a rare commodity in the modern business world. Many CPI employees have worked alongside York for decades, a testament to the trust and sense of purpose he instilled. This internal stability is mirrored in external perceptions; the company has consistently earned high marks for its culture and work-life balance, and it has been named one of Crain's Detroit Cool Places to Work for five consecutive years. The culture York built became a key differentiator, creating strong client relationships and a dedicated workforce committed to upholding his high standards.

A Seamless Transition and Future Vision

As York steps into retirement, the leadership torch passes to Jack W. Van Tiem, a seasoned executive poised to guide CPI into its next chapter. Van Tiem, who joined the company as President in 2023, now assumes the full mantle of President and CEO. His extensive background includes leadership in large-scale talent acquisition, international Managed Service Provider (MSP) operations, and executive consulting, providing him with a broad strategic perspective.

Since joining CPI, Van Tiem has focused on driving sustainable business growth through operational discipline and strategic expansion. His vision involves building upon the strong foundation York established, leveraging his own expertise to expand the company's client base while continuing to attract and retain top-tier talent. The transition has been carefully planned to ensure continuity for employees, clients, and candidates.

“Steve built CPI with vision, grit, and a deep belief in people,” said Van Tiem. “His legacy is felt throughout this company, from the employees who have spent decades here to the clients and candidates who have trusted CPI over the years. We are honored to carry that legacy forward.” This sentiment underscores a commitment to preserving the core values of the company while adapting to the evolving demands of the talent market.

Navigating a Competitive Landscape

CPI operates in the fiercely competitive and fragmented talent solutions industry, yet it has consistently punched above its weight. The company boasts a remarkable history of profitability for over 42 years and was recognized early in its history by INC. 500 as the 35th fastest-growing privately owned company in the United States. Its competitive edge is sharpest in the defense sector, where it has maintained its position as the number one supplier to one of the world's largest defense contractors for more than 33 consecutive years.

While facing competition from other staffing firms and large corporations with their own veteran hiring programs, CPI's deep-rooted expertise and authentic mission provide a powerful distinction. Client testimonials frequently praise the discipline, punctuality, and respect that veteran hires bring to their organizations, reinforcing the value proposition CPI has championed for decades. As the company moves forward under Van Tiem's leadership, its solid market position and trusted reputation provide a formidable platform for future growth.

York's departure marks a significant moment, but the principles he established remain the company's North Star. “After 44 years, I leave CPI with confidence in the people who will carry it forward,” York added. “The company is in good hands, and I look forward to watching CPI continue to grow and make an impact.” With a strong legacy as its foundation and new leadership at the helm, CPI is poised to continue its mission of connecting talent and opportunity for years to come.