Congratulations to Sue Burnett, Founder and President of Burnett Specialists, on her well-deserved induction into the Staffing Industry Analysts (SIA) Staffing 100 North America Hall of Fame as part of the Class of 2026!
This prestigious honor recognizes leaders who have made a lasting, meaningful impact on the staffing and workforce solutions industry through vision, innovation, dedication, and a commitment to progress. Sue joins an elite group of inductees whose legacies have shaped the field for decades.
The 2026 Hall of Fame Class
This year’s class includes some of the most influential figures in North American staffing:
• Sue Burnett, Founder and CEO, Burnett Specialists
• Alan Braynin, Founder, Aya Healthcare (posthumous recognition for his lasting legacy)
• Peter Quigley, Former CEO, Kelly
• William H. “Bill” Stoller, Founder, Express Employment Professionals (posthumous recognition)
As noted in SIA’s announcement, Sue Burnett and Peter Quigley “helped shape their organizations and the broader staffing market over decades of leadership.” The inclusion of posthumous honors for Alan Braynin and Bill Stoller highlights the enduring contributions of these industry giants, many of whom built or led multi-billion dollar companies.
What makes Sue’s induction particularly inspiring is the scale of her achievement. While her peers represent some of the largest organizations in the industry, Burnett Specialists, built from humble beginnings, stands as a testament that true impact comes from integrity, grit, and a people-first approach, not just size.
A Remarkable Journey from 1974 to Today
Sue launched Burnett Personnel Services (now Burnett Specialists) in 1974 with a $10,000 loan secured by her car as collateral. What started as a bold entrepreneurial step has grown into a respected, Texas-based staffing firm with offices across the state, known for responsiveness, professionalism, long-term relationships, and unwavering commitment to candidates and clients.
Her leadership emphasizes building something that lasts — careers, confidence, opportunities, and a culture of excellence. This Hall of Fame nod reflects SIA’s recognition of her “meaningful influence” and her role in championing progress, innovation, and people in the staffing community.
An Incredible Year of Accolades
As Sue shared, this honor caps an extraordinary period: it’s her third Hall of Fame induction in just a few months! She was previously inducted into the American Staffing Association’s (ASA) Leadership Hall of Fame in 2025, further cementing her status as one of the industry’s most respected and trailblazing leaders, especially as one of the few women to achieve such distinctions.
Celebration Ahead
Sue will be recognized in person at the SIA Executive Forum North America, March 23–26, 2026, at the JW Marriott in Austin, Texas. It’s a fitting moment for the community to celebrate her legacy alongside peers from across North America.
Sue’s story is one of courage, determination, and heart. From that first loan in 1974 to shaping an industry with a focus on people, she’s built more than a company; she’s built lives and set a high standard for what ethical, impactful staffing looks like.
Congratulations again, Sue! Your induction is a proud moment for Burnett Specialists, the staffing industry, and everyone you’ve inspired along the way. Here’s to your continued legacy!
