Bit-Wizards and TalkingParents in Fort Walton Beach have again been named to Florida Trend’s annual Best Companies To Work For list, with Bit-Wizards ranking No. 3 in the best small company category and TalkingParents ranking No. 8 in the best medium company category.

• The recognition, featured in the August issue of Florida Trend magazine, marks 17 consecutive years on the list for Bit-Wizards and three consecutive years for TalkingParents. Both companies are led by CEO Vince Mayfield, who has more than 25 years of business experience.

“These are special companies because of the people in them,” Mayfield said. “Over the years, we’ve been fortunate to grow and celebrate success through our team’s hard work, and it’s always been a priority for us to recognize those efforts. Part of acknowledging that is creating a workplace where they embrace collaborating, learning, and achieving the mission every day.”

Mayfield said the annual recognition reflects an intentional approach to company culture.

“When someone joins Bit-Wizards and TalkingParents, they become part of a team with shared values, enthusiasm, and genuine care for one another,” Mayfield said. “Every person here plays a part in shaping what these organizations represent and what we feel inside this building.”

The rankings are determined through an evaluation of workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics, along with a survey measuring employee satisfaction. Companies must have at least 15 workers in Florida and be in operation for at least one year to participate.

“Our annual ‘Best Companies to Work For In Florida’ program is a reminder that great workplaces don’t happen by accident,” Florida Trend Executive Editor Amy Keller said. “The companies that stand out are intentional about investing in their people, creating opportunities for them to grow and building environments where employees want to be.”

Florida Trend President and Publisher David Denor said this year’s honorees set an example for others.

“Enterprising in their industries — these creative and inspiring companies recruit, retain and deliver distinctive workplace environments and employee benefits plans to keep their teams engaged, involved and constantly collaborating,” Denor said.

The Best Companies To Work For In Florida program is managed by Florida Trend and Workforce Research Group and is endorsed by the HR Florida State Council.