Honors Community Excellence Chamber of Commerce Names Vince Mayfield, CEO and Co-Founder of BitWizards, as Life Director

The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce announced Vince Mayfield, CEO and co-founder of BitWizards, as Life Director during the Chamber’s Annual Installation and Awards Breakfast held on Friday, January 9, 2026.

The Life Director designation recognizes an individual whose long-standing commitment, leadership, and service have made a lasting impact on the Chamber and the Greater Fort Walton Beach business community. Mayfield actively supports the Chamber and has earned recognition as a leader within the region’s technology and business sectors.

The annual event also marked the installation of the Chamber’s 2026 leadership and a formal transition of board leadership. Gordon King, CEO of Okaloosa Gas, who completed a successful year as chairman of the board, ceremonially passed the gavel to Bonnie Barlow, president and CEO of Bridgeway Center, who will serve as chairman for 2026.

King reflected on the Chamber’s accomplishments over the past year, highlighting continued progress in member engagement, advocacy, and community partnerships. Barlow outlined priorities for the year ahead, emphasizing advocacy, collaboration, and continued economic growth throughout Okaloosa County, guided by her theme for the year: Leadership, Service, and Success.

Annual Awards Congratulations to the recipients of this year’s prestigious awards: Volunteer of the Year: Barbara Britt, B Britt, LLC Ambassador of the Year: Paul Singleton Local Business of the Year: Mills Heating & Air Corporate Business of the Year: Cox Media Teddy Awards The event also featured the beloved Teddy Awards, which recognized individuals for their dedication and contributions to the community. This year’s Teddy Award winners include:

Carolyn Ketchel, Okaloosa County Commissioner Stephen Perkins, Warren Averett Debbie Dodge, Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce Ben Merrell, owner, Soundside Waterfront Bar; Fort Walton Beach City Council Bernard Johnson, Florida Power & Light Kelly Jasen, United Way Emerald Coast Shane Weddle, FASTSIGNS Chief Robert Bage, City of Fort Walton Beach Police Department Marcus Chambers, Okaloosa County School Superintendent The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce continues to serve as a leading advocate for business, economic development, and quality of life throughout the region.

For more information about programs, events, and chamber membership, visit www.fwbchamber.org.

About Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce

The Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce is a community development organization that advocates for businesses across Okaloosa County, creating greater opportunities for all. The Chamber brings together the business, non-profit, governmental, and cultural leaders of our area, which strengthens local business and enhances the quality of life in our community. The Chamber offers business promotion, advocacy on local issues, exposure to its members, and various opportunities to serve the community.

Greater Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce Installs 2026 Leadership