Behind the Screens: A Conversation with Industry Pioneer Robert Capwell
Lester Rosen, host of the podcast Behind The Screens: The Background Pros, recently sat down with our founder and principal consultant, Robert Capwell, who has been a pillar in the industry, driving it forward from the days when everything ran on thermal fax machines (yes, really!).
Whether you’re part of the background screening world or just curious about what goes on behind the scenes, it’s clear that Bob played a major role in transitioning the industry globally while fostering the highest standards in quality and compliance.
Here are some highlights.
From College to Industry Trailblazer
Bob’s background in the industry stretches back to 1988 when he graduated from Penn State and began his career. He initially thought he’d go into his family’s dry-cleaning business, but he was drawn to the investigative side of things. After a short stint with Equifax, Bob took a leap and started his own background screening company in 1991—out of his college fraternity house!
By 1994, Bob had moved his company to Pittsburgh, and by 2007, it had grown to a multi-million-dollar business. He later sold the company but continued leading in the field, working at other firms and eventually establishing Capwell Consulting Group in 2022. Over the years, he’s leveraged his three decades of experience to advise companies on compliance, risk management, and more.
Understanding the Importance of Lobbying and Best Practices
Bob’s contribution to the industry extends far beyond his company. As a past co-chair of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners now (PBSA), he was instrumental in establishing the initial funding for the association’s lobbying efforts in Washington, D.C. to foster awareness of the screening industry to legislators and government agencies. in expanding the organization globally. This involved everything from lobbying in Washington, D.C. to setting up ethics and accreditation standards to ensure a level playing field for all background screening agencies. He also co-chaired the global task force, which helped make PBSA an international association.
Fostering a Global Association
Bob co-chaired the association’s initial global task force to establish a global organizational and leadership structure. The task force established knowledge sharing, education, and industry collaboration to transform the U.S.-based NAPBS into a global entity. Bob received the honor of sitting on the first PBSA Global Board of Directors. His efforts and worldwide contribution extended far beyond his company.
For Bob, accreditation and certification are essential for any new firm looking to establish credibility in the industry. He emphasizes that while the accreditation process is intensive, it’s invaluable in promoting quality and transparency.
Challenges in Today’s Background Screening Industry
The background screening world has evolved dramatically, but new challenges are always around the corner. A few pressing issues include:
1. Data Privacy and Identifier Redaction
Privacy laws and the redaction of identifiers in court records are significant challenges. States like California and Michigan have implemented strict privacy rules that require careful navigation.
2. FCRA-Related Litigation
Lawsuits related to the Fair Credit Reporting Act (FCRA) continue to rise, often targeting both consumer reporting agencies and employers.
3. Technology and AI
While AI offers exciting opportunities, ensuring it doesn’t perpetuate biases is a critical concern.
4. Legislation Patchwork
The growing number of state-specific “clean slate” laws means more compliance complexity for background screeners.
Despite these challenges, Bob remains optimistic. He believes that with the right mix of technology, compliance, and ethical standards, background screening will continue to evolve and improve.
Advice for Newcomers
Bob encourages new professionals in background screening to immerse themselves in learning. His advice: join PBSA, pursue certification, seek mentorship, and leverage the tools and resources available through the association. With technology advancing rapidly, staying up-to-date on compliance and industry trends is more crucial than ever.
Beyond the Industry: Meet Robert Capwell
When Bob isn’t consulting or speaking at industry events, he’s living a full life in St. Augustine, Florida, enjoying the beach, kayaking, and even some occasional “surfing.” He’s also a hobbyist inventor, collaborating with Penn State students on a new tractor attachment he hopes to bring to market soon.
Looking Ahead
Bob’s career exemplifies the power of curiosity, resilience, and passion for continuous improvement. From humble beginnings in a college dorm to being at the forefront of global industry standards, he has seen it all—and he’s still pushing the industry forward. So, whether you’re a newcomer or a seasoned pro, Bob’s story reminds us that there’s always more to learn and new ways to make an impact.
Connect with Bob and his team here.
About Capwell Consulting Group
Capwell Consulting Group is a nationally recognized litigation support and risk mitigation consulting firm specializing in highly regulated industries. Our firm provides industry-leading guidance, research, reporting, and expert witness testimony for legal proceedings involving employment screening & negligent hiring, FCRA litigation, drug & alcohol testing, and medical device quality and regulatory compliance matters. With over three decades of industry experience, Capwell Consulting Group is a trusted advisor to employers, attorneys, and consumers around the globe.
The information published within is provided for education purposes only. The information is not intended to or constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials are published for general informational purposes only and not considered the views of a particular expert or consultant of Capwell Consulting Group, LLC. © 2024 http://www.capwellconsulting.com