Uniting & Promoting Technology Education Communication Collaboration Innovation in Sunny Southwest Florida

About - SWFLTech, Inc.

Mission

Championing the growth of Southwest Florida’s technology sector via a vibrant ecosystem dedicated to advancing technological excellence and economic prosperity.

about Swfl Tech - past and present

From the inventions of our own Thomas Edison in 1885 to the present, sunny Southwest Florida has a reputation for developing innovation leaders.

Today, we continue to see innovation in every organization and are inspired by the founders who call Southwest Florida home.  SWFL Tech was originally founded in 2008 as the Southwest Florida Regional Technology Partnership.  The original partnership was between regional Economic Development Councils, Florida Gulf Coast University, and community leaders who believed in the value proposition of focusing on the growth of the tech sector.  Since then, our regional tech ecosystem has evolved.  And while our mission remains the same, our priorities are evolving to meet the current and future needs of our region.  

A regional tech ecosystem is a network of interconnected organizations, individuals, and resources within a specific geographic area that collaboratively drive technological innovation, economic growth, and talent development. It typically includes tech companies, startups, educational institutions, government agencies, investors, and support organizations like incubators and accelerators, all working together to create a thriving innovation environment.

SWFL Tech is a volunteer-led non-profit backed by a strong group of leaders that promote, support, and celebrate the tech ecosystem as a whole – the people, spaces, and places where innovation happens. We aspire to be the connecting point, fill gaps, illuminate the local legacy of innovation, and provide an inclusive base for today’s and tomorrow’s technologies, technologists, and visionaries.

Prior to 2020, our members’ support allowed us to partner with others on education/workforce events, host the Annual Tech Summit and Tech Awards, co-create research projects, provide scholarships to high school students and so much more.  However, our membership renewals were suspended out of respect for those that were struggling through Covid (2020) and the aftermath of Hurricane Ian (2022).  We scaled back operations to accommodate the loss in revenue so we have been somewhat quiet since then.  

Our roadmap was revised in 2025 to focus on the following:

  1. Rebuilding our membership
  2. Delivering information of value through our newsletter and website
  3. Recognizing individuals and organizations driving innovation and growth in the development and application of technology
  4. Connecting job seekers and employers at the annual SWFL TechMatch event
  5. Supporting high school students as the fiscal agent for our regional FIRST Robotics Team and the SWFL Aspirations in Computing Program
  6. Fostering innovation by listening and acting upon our members’ ideas to advance common objectives (within available resources)

We invite companies and organizations to become a paid member to demonstrate their commitment to growing a strong tech ecosystem in Southwest Florida. 

Individuals are invited to subscribe to our free newsletter. 

Officers

Laura Schmidt, President, Board Chair

Laura has held leadership roles in corporate technology, K-12 education, higher education, and non-profit organizations. She worked for a Fortune 100 company for 15 years and was responsible for enterprise software, user centered design and testing, and technology research. She then served as Executive Director of an education foundation for nearly 5 years before joining a local school district as a consultant where she provided leadership and support to strategic planning and continuous improvement efforts, developed corporate relations strategies, and represented the District in local, regional, state, and national efforts to support talent pipeline objectives. She later served as the first Director of Corporate Relations for the region's premier engineering university with the primary objective of aligning corporate and university objectives to form mutually beneficial partnerships. Most recently, she served as the Chief Talent Development Officer for a regional tech council where she helped build the foundation for the organization and assumed primary responsibility for tech talent pipeline strategies. Laura holds a degree in the Management of Computer Systems and an MBA with a focus on leadership studies. She has served in a wide variety of volunteer roles and has received awards for her service to the tech community at both a local and national level. She now serves as a consultant for state/regional tech talent initiatives and is a mentor for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Talent Pipeline Management program.

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Laura Schmidt, President, Board Chair

Laura has held leadership roles in corporate technology, K-12 education, higher education, and non-profit organizations. She worked for a Fortune 100 company for 15 years and was responsible for enterprise software, user centered design and testing, and technology research. She then served as Executive Director of an education foundation for nearly 5 years before joining a local school district as a consultant where she provided leadership and support to strategic planning and continuous improvement efforts, developed corporate relations strategies, and represented the District in local, regional, state, and national efforts to support talent pipeline objectives. She later served as the first Director of Corporate Relations for the region's premier engineering university with the primary objective of aligning corporate and university objectives to form mutually beneficial partnerships. Most recently, she served as the Chief Talent Development Officer for a regional tech council where she helped build the foundation for the organization and assumed primary responsibility for tech talent pipeline strategies. Laura holds a degree in the Management of Computer Systems and an MBA with a focus on leadership studies. She has served in a wide variety of volunteer roles and has received awards for her service to the tech community at both a local and national level. She now serves as a consultant for state/regional tech talent initiatives and is a mentor for the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation's Talent Pipeline Management program.

Laura Schmidt, President, Board Chair

Gabriel Denny, Treasurer

Gabriel “Gabe” Denny is Chief Financial Officer at Entech Computer Services, a top managed service provider in Southwest Florida, where he drives financial strategy and operational growth. With over 20 years of distinguished military service, Gabe led global teams and managed multimillion-dollar budgets for the U.S. Air Force, including advanced space and nuclear missile programs. In the private sector, he’s excelled in scaling revenue, notably boosting annual revenue by over $3M at a SaaS company. A strategic leader and mentor, Gabe is committed to advancing tech innovation and economic growth in the region. New to Southwest Florida, he served as the Lee County School Board District Advisory Council Chair (2023-2025), completing his two-term limit and strengthening community ties. Gabe holds a Master’s in Accounting & Financial Management from the University of Maryland and certifications including CDFM and PMP.

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Gabriel Denny, Treasurer

Gabriel “Gabe” Denny is Chief Financial Officer at Entech Computer Services, a top managed service provider in Southwest Florida, where he drives financial strategy and operational growth. With over 20 years of distinguished military service, Gabe led global teams and managed multimillion-dollar budgets for the U.S. Air Force, including advanced space and nuclear missile programs. In the private sector, he’s excelled in scaling revenue, notably boosting annual revenue by over $3M at a SaaS company. A strategic leader and mentor, Gabe is committed to advancing tech innovation and economic growth in the region. New to Southwest Florida, he served as the Lee County School Board District Advisory Council Chair (2023-2025), completing his two-term limit and strengthening community ties. Gabe holds a Master’s in Accounting & Financial Management from the University of Maryland and certifications including CDFM and PMP.

Gabriel Denny, Treasurer

Debbie Peterson, Secretary

Debbie Peterson is the former Vice President and Chief of Staff at CallMiner, a high growth venture backed technology company that enables customers across the globe to convert customer interaction insights into transformative business performance improvements. In this role, Debbie reports to the CEO and works closely with the entire executive team to drive the development and execution of business strategy across the company. Debbie spearheads operational excellence by combining a deep understanding of organizational design, process and systems improvement and human capital development. Debbie is a Southwest Florida native and a lifelong learner with a deep interest in how technology, business and education intersect to create growth and opportunity. She has held a variety of operational and leadership roles in companies ranging from early-stage startups to established healthcare companies to large publicly traded multinationals. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a Marketing concentration from Jacksonville State University, an MBA from Nova Southeastern University’s School of Business and a Master’s Certificate in IT/IS Project Management from Villanova University.

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Debbie Peterson, Secretary

Debbie Peterson is the Vice President and Chief of Staff at CallMiner, a high growth venture backed technology company that enables customers across the globe to convert customer interaction insights into transformative business performance improvements. In this role, Debbie reports to the CEO and works closely with the entire executive team to drive the development and execution of business strategy across the company. Debbie spearheads operational excellence by combining a deep understanding of organizational design, process and systems improvement and human capital development. Debbie is a Southwest Florida native and a lifelong learner with a deep interest in how technology, business and education intersect to create growth and opportunity. She has held a variety of operational and leadership roles in companies ranging from early-stage startups to established healthcare companies to large publicly traded multinationals. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration with a Marketing concentration from Jacksonville State University, an MBA from Nova Southeastern University’s School of Business and a Master’s Certificate in IT/IS Project Management from Villanova University.

Debbie Peterson, Secretary

Board of Directors

Chuck Hausman, Governance

Chuck Hausman is the CEO of K.Mizra which he founded in 2019. Since its founding K.Mizra has focused on acquiring high value, high quality patents with a global reach. Prior to forming K.Mizra, Chuck specialized in IP (Intellectual Property) at a number of companies. Chuck started working in IP at the Recording Industry Association of America where he was involved in such seminal cases as Napster and MP3.com. He was Deputy Director at the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) and then worked at Philips Intellectual Property and Standards Group as well as the world-wide program manager for a Pool licensing consortium known as One-Red. Chuck also furthered his IP experience as President of US operations for a patent licensing firm known as Sisvel. Chuck graduated with a BS in accounting from Tulane University and JD from Southwestern University School of Law. He is admitted to California Bar Association (1996).

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Chuck Hausman, Governance

Chuck Hausman is the CEO of K.Mizra which he founded in 2019. Since its founding K.Mizra has focused on acquiring high value, high quality patents with a global reach. Prior to forming K.Mizra, Chuck specialized in IP (Intellectual Property) at a number of companies. Chuck started working in IP at the Recording Industry Association of America where he was involved in such seminal cases as Napster and MP3.com. He was Deputy Director at the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) and then worked at Philips Intellectual Property and Standards Group as well as the world-wide program manager for a Pool licensing consortium known as One-Red. Chuck also furthered his IP experience as President of US operations for a patent licensing firm known as Sisvel. Chuck graduated with a BS in accounting from Tulane University and JD from Southwestern University School of Law. He is admitted to California Bar Association (1996).

Chuck Hausman, Governance Chair

Wendi Fowler, Finance

Wendi Fowler is an accomplished entrepreneur and leader for more than 25 years in the local technology field as past CEO and owner of The Client Server, Inc. Most recently Wendi has integrated her technology background with a her passion for improving the lives of Seniors with innovations and tech in Continuous Life Care Communities throughout the U.S. As founder of Beacon Life Tech, Wendi leads Low Voltage projects with developers and executive management to reach the most effective technology for every area of the community. She is known for her professionalism and dedicated community service, as well as her highest level of leadership by empowering others to achieve their goals. Wendi is the 2017 SWFRTP Woman of the Year in Technology, and most recently nominated for 2019 APEX Award. Wendi has been appointed various community honors and industry certifications. She is a board member and officer of several corporate and non-profit organizations.

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Wendi Fowler, Finance

Wendi Fowler is an accomplished entrepreneur and leader for more than 25 years in the local technology field as past CEO and owner of The Client Server, Inc. Most recently Wendi has integrated her technology background with a her passion for improving the lives of Seniors with innovations and tech in Continuous Life Care Communities throughout the U.S. As founder of Beacon Life Tech, Wendi leads Low Voltage projects with developers and executive management to reach the most effective technology for every area of the community. She is known for her professionalism and dedicated community service, as well as her highest level of leadership by empowering others to achieve their goals. Wendi is the 2017 SWFRTP Woman of the Year in Technology, and most recently nominated for 2019 APEX Award. Wendi has been appointed various community honors and industry certifications. She is a board member and officer of several corporate and non-profit organizations.

Wendi Fowler, Finance Chair

John Schalager, CIO Advisory

Mr. Schlager is the CEO & Co-Founder of Inceptus, trusted advisors providing military grade cyber defenses and high-end consulting services that focus on helping organizations deal with the increasing risk and impact of cyber-attacks. Combining best of breed technologies, advanced data analytics, exclusive threat intelligence and elite analysts with years of digital combat experience Inceptus builds ultimate cyber resilience that aligns with an organizations business strategy. He was the Co-Founder & Chief Cyber Strategist for Skout Secure Intelligence (now Barracuda MSP). Skout is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) and Consulting Company offering cyber services to clients across numerous verticals including Critical Infrastructure, Financial Services, Information Technology, Healthcare and Retail. He was responsible for development and operations of the Secure Intelligence Center (SIC), the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT), Skout Labs as well as for the overall selection, design & operations of all services offered by Skout. He was the Chief Information Security Officer of the United States Capitol Police responsible for the overall design and deployment of enterprise cybersecurity program, including its associated technologies and policies. He was an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton where he investigated malicious activities and designed and developed operational security strategies for the assessment, detection, remediation, and continuous monitoring of large-scale enterprises. He developed strategies for the clandestine detection, containment, eradication and continued monitoring of Foreign Nation States and the Advanced Persistent Threat (APT). Mr. Schlager was an Information Security Officer for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency where he was responsible for the cybersecurity program and posture of the office of criminal enforcement, forensics, and training (OCEFT) and the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). Mr. Schlager graduated with a Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude, majoring in Cybersecurity with a minor in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland University College. He is an active member in numerous honor and leadership societies including the National Society of Leadership and Success – Sigma Alpha Pi, the National Honor Society for the Computing, and Information Disciplines – Upsilon Pi Epsilon, the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. Throughout John’s career he has also held many IT Certifications including the Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP), Cisco Certified Networking Professional (CCNP), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Cisco Certified Design Associate Checkpoint Certified Security Expert (CCSE), Checkpoint Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) and the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE).

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John Schalager, CIO Advisory

Mr. Schlager is the CEO & Co-Founder of Inceptus, trusted advisors providing military grade cyber defenses and high-end consulting services that focus on helping organizations deal with the increasing risk and impact of cyber-attacks. Combining best of breed technologies, advanced data analytics, exclusive threat intelligence and elite analysts with years of digital combat experience Inceptus builds ultimate cyber resilience that aligns with an organizations business strategy. He was the Co-Founder & Chief Cyber Strategist for Skout Secure Intelligence (now Barracuda MSP). Skout is a Managed Security Service Provider (MSSP) and Consulting Company offering cyber services to clients across numerous verticals including Critical Infrastructure, Financial Services, Information Technology, Healthcare and Retail. He was responsible for development and operations of the Secure Intelligence Center (SIC), the Computer Security Incident Response Team (CSIRT), Skout Labs as well as for the overall selection, design & operations of all services offered by Skout. He was the Chief Information Security Officer of the United States Capitol Police responsible for the overall design and deployment of enterprise cybersecurity program, including its associated technologies and policies. He was an Associate at Booz Allen Hamilton where he investigated malicious activities and designed and developed operational security strategies for the assessment, detection, remediation, and continuous monitoring of large-scale enterprises. He developed strategies for the clandestine detection, containment, eradication and continued monitoring of Foreign Nation States and the Advanced Persistent Threat (APT). Mr. Schlager was an Information Security Officer for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency where he was responsible for the cybersecurity program and posture of the office of criminal enforcement, forensics, and training (OCEFT) and the Criminal Investigation Division (CID). Mr. Schlager graduated with a Bachelor of Science, summa cum laude, majoring in Cybersecurity with a minor in Information Systems Management from the University of Maryland University College. He is an active member in numerous honor and leadership societies including the National Society of Leadership and Success – Sigma Alpha Pi, the National Honor Society for the Computing, and Information Disciplines – Upsilon Pi Epsilon, the Alpha Sigma Lambda Honor Society, the National Society of Collegiate Scholars, and the Honor Society of Phi Kappa Phi. Throughout John’s career he has also held many IT Certifications including the Certified Information System Security Professional (CISSP), Cisco Certified Networking Professional (CCNP), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Cisco Certified Design Associate Checkpoint Certified Security Expert (CCSE), Checkpoint Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) and the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE).

John Schalager, CIO Advisory

Justin Jaffry, Marketing

Justin Jaffry is a seasoned Marketing professional and is the Principle Consultant of Market Lite a Digital Marketing Agency. Recently, Justin launched an online Marketplace for senior fitness called Senior Fitness Finder. When Justin isn't working or volunteering, you can find him playing volleyball or paddleboarding.

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Justin Jaffry, Marketing

Justin Jaffry is a seasoned Marketing professional and is the Principle Consultant of Market Lite a Digital Marketing Agency. Recently, Justin launched an online Marketplace for senior fitness called Senior Fitness Finder. When Justin isn't working or volunteering, you can find him playing volleyball or paddleboarding.

Justin Jaffry, Marketing

Colleen Jorgensen, Membership Operations

Colleen Jorgensen is a seasoned professional in the technology sector, currently serving as a key player at Hotwire Communications. With an impressive background, Colleen brings over 25 years of experience in leading and training sales teams, making significant contributions to the industry. Her journey in the tech world began with notable stints at industry giants Sprint and AT&T, where she excelled in the role of Commercial Regional Sales Manager. She returned to school to earn a Network Administration Degree. Armed with a solid educational foundation, she has since been a driving force in the technology sector, staying at the forefront of industry advancements and imparting her knowledge to her teams. Beyond her professional endeavors, Colleen is deeply involved in the community. She is a proud officer of SWFLTech, an initiative that underscores her commitment to fostering technological innovation in Southwest Florida. Colleen is not only a dedicated professional but also a loving family person, managing the responsibilities of a large family with five children. Colleen extends her influence beyond the corporate world, serving as an officer on several non-profit boards. Her dedication to community development is evident through her active participation in mentoring and educating initiatives, with notable involvement in Junior Achievement and KKIDS, Inc. Moreover, she plays a pivotal role as a member of the Business Advisory Council for Dunbar High School, contributing her expertise to shape the next generation of professionals.

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Colleen Jorgensen, Membership Operations

Colleen Jorgensen is a seasoned professional in the technology sector, currently serving as a key player at Hotwire Communications. With an impressive background, Colleen brings over 25 years of experience in leading and training sales teams, making significant contributions to the industry. Her journey in the tech world began with notable stints at industry giants Sprint and AT&T, where she excelled in the role of Commercial Regional Sales Manager. She returned to school to earn a Network Administration Degree. Armed with a solid educational foundation, she has since been a driving force in the technology sector, staying at the forefront of industry advancements and imparting her knowledge to her teams. Beyond her professional endeavors, Colleen is deeply involved in the community. She is a proud officer of SWFLTech, an initiative that underscores her commitment to fostering technological innovation in Southwest Florida. Colleen is not only a dedicated professional but also a loving family person, managing the responsibilities of a large family with five children. Colleen extends her influence beyond the corporate world, serving as an officer on several non-profit boards. Her dedication to community development is evident through her active participation in mentoring and educating initiatives, with notable involvement in Junior Achievement and KKIDS, Inc. Moreover, she plays a pivotal role as a member of the Business Advisory Council for Dunbar High School, contributing her expertise to shape the next generation of professionals.

Colleen Jorgensen, Membership Operations

Edward Fritz, Workforce Development

Edward Fritz is currently the I.T. Director for Southwest Florida Workforce Development Board (dba CareerSource Southwest Florida). He is a Florida Certified Workforce Professional with over 13 years of experience in Workforce Development and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funded Program Management. He has served in the roles of Out-of-School Youth Program Coordinator and Quality Assurance Program Manager for Wagner-Peyser, Veterans, and WIOA Out-of-School Youth programs at CareerSource Southwest Florida. Edward served as a youth Career Coach and then Program Manager for youth programs with Henkel’s & McCoy. Prior to moving to Florida in 2011, he worked as a Customer Quality Assurance Engineer and Quality Assurance Manager in Bloomington and Peoria Illinois. Edward retired from the United States Navy in 2004, after serving 23 years working in the Advanced Electronics and Computer Field and Career Recruiting. He is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Healthcare Management and a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Human Resources.

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Edward Fritz, Workforce Development

Edward Fritz is currently the I.T. Director for Southwest Florida Workforce Development Board (dba CareerSource Southwest Florida). He is a Florida Certified Workforce Professional with over 13 years of experience in Workforce Development and Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act funded Program Management. He has served in the roles of Out-of-School Youth Program Coordinator and Quality Assurance Program Manager for Wagner-Peyser, Veterans, and WIOA Out-of-School Youth programs at CareerSource Southwest Florida. Edward served as a youth Career Coach and then Program Manager for youth programs with Henkel’s & McCoy. Prior to moving to Florida in 2011, he worked as a Customer Quality Assurance Engineer and Quality Assurance Manager in Bloomington and Peoria Illinois. Edward retired from the United States Navy in 2004, after serving 23 years working in the Advanced Electronics and Computer Field and Career Recruiting. He is a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Healthcare Management and a Master of Science in Management with a concentration in Human Resources.

Edward Fritz, Workforce Development

Wes Sprecher, Community Engagement

Wesley Sprecher is a prominent entrepreneur and community advocate based in Southwest Florida, particularly in Fort Myers. He currently serves as the President of Blue Water Components, Inc., where he leverages his extensive experience in supply chain management and distribution within the manufacturing industry. 

Beyond his role at Blue Water Components, Wesley co-founded Swamp Cat Brewing Company, a microbrewery that originated from the Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Veterans’ Entrepreneurship Program.  His involvement in the local brewing scene underscores his commitment to fostering community engagement and supporting local initiatives. In an article titled “Opportunity Set, Southwest Florida,” published in East Lee County News, Wesley discussed the region’s potential for growth and the importance of collaboration among community members. 

In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Wesley actively contributes to regional development through various roles. He serves as the Director of Community Engagement on the SWFL Tech board, an advisor to the SWFL Business Alliance, and a technology subject matter expert on the due diligence subcommittee at the Tamiami Angel Fund. Wesley is also a mentor and speaker for the FGCU Veterans’ Entrepreneurship Program, reflecting his dedication to education and mentorship. 

Wesley’s diverse interests extend to the arts, where he pursues creative endeavors such as rap music and painting, showcasing his multifaceted personality and commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of his community. 

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Wes Sprecher, Community Engagement

Wesley Sprecher is a prominent entrepreneur and community advocate based in Southwest Florida, particularly in Fort Myers. He currently serves as the President of Blue Water Components, Inc., where he leverages his extensive experience in supply chain management and distribution within the manufacturing industry. 

Beyond his role at Blue Water Components, Wesley co-founded Swamp Cat Brewing Company, a microbrewery that originated from the Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) Veterans’ Entrepreneurship Program.  His involvement in the local brewing scene underscores his commitment to fostering community engagement and supporting local initiatives. In an article titled “Opportunity Set, Southwest Florida,” published in East Lee County News, Wesley discussed the region’s potential for growth and the importance of collaboration among community members. 

In addition to his entrepreneurial ventures, Wesley actively contributes to regional development through various roles. He serves as the Director of Community Engagement on the SWFL Tech board, an advisor to the SWFL Business Alliance, and a technology subject matter expert on the due diligence subcommittee at the Tamiami Angel Fund. Wesley is also a mentor and speaker for the FGCU Veterans’ Entrepreneurship Program, reflecting his dedication to education and mentorship. 

Wesley’s diverse interests extend to the arts, where he pursues creative endeavors such as rap music and painting, showcasing his multifaceted personality and commitment to enriching the cultural fabric of his community. 

Wes Sprecher, Community Engagement

Warren Baucom, Economic Development

Warren Baucom is Director of Partnerships and Entrepreneurial Activities with the Economic Development Office of Lee County. In this role, Warren facilitates programs and connections, filling in gaps along the spectrum of economic opportunity in Southwest Florida. Among other responsibilities, he serves on the Lee County Disaster Advisory Committee, provides support for the Horizon Council, and is a member of the county’s Local Technology Planning Team. Warren is a founding member SWFL Tech, serving on the Board of Directors since 2010. During his time on the board, he has chaired the Hackathon Committee, the Awards Planning Committee, and currently chairs the Economic Development Committee for the organization. In 2014 Warren received the Partnership Award for service to SWFL Tech. Additionally, he serves on the Conference Planning Committee for the Florida Economic Development Council where he was previously the SWFL Regional Director. He is a former President of the SWFL Small Business Resource Network, and served as Administrator of the Lee County Enterprise Zone. In 2022 Warren was part of a team that established the SWFL Veteran’s Business Council. Prior to joining the Economic Development Office, Warren held a variety of management roles within the hospitality industry and served in the United States Air Force as an intelligence analyst stationed in Okinawa, Japan and at RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom. He is a graduate of the Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University.

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Warren Baucom, Economic Development

Warren Baucom is Director of Partnerships and Entrepreneurial Activities with the Economic Development Office of Lee County. In this role, Warren facilitates programs and connections, filling in gaps along the spectrum of economic opportunity in Southwest Florida. Among other responsibilities, he serves on the Lee County Disaster Advisory Committee, provides support for the Horizon Council, and is a member of the county’s Local Technology Planning Team. Warren is a founding member SWFL Tech, serving on the Board of Directors since 2010. During his time on the board, he has chaired the Hackathon Committee, the Awards Planning Committee, and currently chairs the Economic Development Committee for the organization. In 2014 Warren received the Partnership Award for service to SWFL Tech. Additionally, he serves on the Conference Planning Committee for the Florida Economic Development Council where he was previously the SWFL Regional Director. He is a former President of the SWFL Small Business Resource Network, and served as Administrator of the Lee County Enterprise Zone. In 2022 Warren was part of a team that established the SWFL Veteran’s Business Council. Prior to joining the Economic Development Office, Warren held a variety of management roles within the hospitality industry and served in the United States Air Force as an intelligence analyst stationed in Okinawa, Japan and at RAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom. He is a graduate of the Coles College of Business at Kennesaw State University.

Warren Baucom, Economic Development

Other Leadership

Randy Mitchelson, Board Advisor

Randy Mitchelson, APR, is an award winning entrepreneur, writer and community leader. After holding leadership positions at KeyBank, Marketplace Bank and Bank of America, Randy founded National Web Leads and started an internet marketing and public relations career that evolved into becoming vice president of sales and marketing at iPartnerMedia, an award winning digital marketing agency and Google Partner. Randy’s expertise has been featured in Search Engine Journal, RackSpace, Adobe’s CMO.com, Media Leaders, CMSWire, Entrepreneur.com and Website Magazine. He has co-founded five non-profits including the Southwest Florida Regional Technology Partnership (now SWFLTech). Randy is a Golden Image Award recipient from the Florida Public Relations Association where he is also President of the Southwest Florida chapter. He also serves on the board of directors with the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce. Randy earned a Bachelor of Science and MBA at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York.

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Randy Mitchelson, Board Advisor

Randy Mitchelson, APR, is an award winning entrepreneur, writer and community leader. After holding leadership positions at KeyBank, Marketplace Bank and Bank of America, Randy founded National Web Leads and started an internet marketing and public relations career that evolved into becoming vice president of sales and marketing at iPartnerMedia, an award winning digital marketing agency and Google Partner. Randy’s expertise has been featured in Search Engine Journal, RackSpace, Adobe’s CMO.com, Media Leaders, CMSWire, Entrepreneur.com and Website Magazine. He has co-founded five non-profits including the Southwest Florida Regional Technology Partnership (now SWFLTech). Randy is a Golden Image Award recipient from the Florida Public Relations Association where he is also President of the Southwest Florida chapter. He also serves on the board of directors with the Greater Fort Myers Chamber of Commerce. Randy earned a Bachelor of Science and MBA at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute in Troy, New York.

Randy Mitchelson, Board Advisor

Peg Elmore, Board Advisor

Peg Elmore is the Business Services Director for CareerSource Southwest Florida. Although Peg has been in the workforce development industry since 1995, her previous employment has included work in the private companies within the travel industry and the oil and gas exploration industry. Her unique background with a start-up company as well as a Fortune 100 Company has proven valuable in understanding the needs of the business community. Peg works closely with business and community organizations in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee counties. Peg is a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Southwest Florida board member and represents SHRM on the Horizon Council, Lee County’s public-private board which advises the Lee County Board of Commissioners on economic development issues. Peg also serves on numerous committees and advisory boards related to education and workforce development. She is a 2011 graduate of Leadership Lee and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

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Peg Elmore, Board Advisor

Peg Elmore is the Business Services Director for CareerSource Southwest Florida. Although Peg has been in the workforce development industry since 1995, her previous employment has included work in the private companies within the travel industry and the oil and gas exploration industry. Her unique background with a start-up company as well as a Fortune 100 Company has proven valuable in understanding the needs of the business community. Peg works closely with business and community organizations in Charlotte, Collier, Glades, Hendry and Lee counties. Peg is a Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) Southwest Florida board member and represents SHRM on the Horizon Council, Lee County’s public-private board which advises the Lee County Board of Commissioners on economic development issues. Peg also serves on numerous committees and advisory boards related to education and workforce development. She is a 2011 graduate of Leadership Lee and has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration.

Peg Elmore, Board Advisor

Michael Honorio, Membership & Community Engagement Chair

Joe Chiarella, Entrepreneur, Advisor, and Futurist

Joe has been in tech since the early 1980s. He worked for a 1200 store national retailer and a Fortune 500 global confectionary company before he began building his own tech businesses in the late 1990s. Two companies for which he was part owner/founder were sold for 8 figures each and generated nearly a billion dollars in lifetime revenues. More importantly, the software products he shepherded to market for those companies protected hundreds of millions of computer users around the planet from malicious actors. In addition to cyber security, Joe has developed tech products for the academic, law, and publishing markets. He has been awarded three US patents (two in data encryption) and is published on topics ranging from IT to e-learning, innovation, and bio-ethics. His management model, Strategic Focus Alignment, not only helped he and his co-founders build their own successful companies, but as an advisor, coach, mentor or consultant, Joe has used it to help many other companies ranging from global wellness, to wine-making, distribution, federal contracting, US military, behavioral health software and more. A fan of CEO peer groups, Joe has delivered talks to hundreds of CEOs as part of the Vistage Speakers Bureau. Before relocating to the Gulf Coast, Joe worked with the Technology Council of Central Pennsylvania to help grow the tech eco-system there. He was one of the creator-leaders of the Founders Roundtable, mentored at several startup weekends, was one of the organizers of the annual UpNext Festival, and facilitated angel investment and/or M&A. Most of all, he rolled up his sleeves any way he could to help local tech companies be successful. He has also served on the Boards of Coder Kids and ExecuStar, was a member of the PA House of Representatives Emerging Technologies Taskforce, and was a member of the Commercialization Advisory Board for Penn State Hershey Medical Center. In his leisure time he carves sculptures out of marble and alabaster, is working on completing a book about Strategic Focus Alignment and, as a team with his amazing wife, perpetually seek that elusive 7 No-Trump contract in Bridge.

joe

Joe Chiarella, Entrepreneur, Advisor, and Futurist

Joe has been in tech since the early 1980s. He worked for a 1200 store national retailer and a Fortune 500 global confectionary company before he began building his own tech businesses in the late 1990s. Two companies for which he was part owner/founder were sold for 8 figures each and generated nearly a billion dollars in lifetime revenues. More importantly, the software products he shepherded to market for those companies protected hundreds of millions of computer users around the planet from malicious actors. In addition to cyber security, Joe has developed tech products for the academic, law, and publishing markets. He has been awarded three US patents (two in data encryption) and is published on topics ranging from IT to e-learning, innovation, and bio-ethics. His management model, Strategic Focus Alignment, not only helped he and his co-founders build their own successful companies, but as an advisor, coach, mentor or consultant, Joe has used it to help many other companies ranging from global wellness, to wine-making, distribution, federal contracting, US military, behavioral health software and more. A fan of CEO peer groups, Joe has delivered talks to hundreds of CEOs as part of the Vistage Speakers Bureau. Before relocating to the Gulf Coast, Joe worked with the Technology Council of Central Pennsylvania to help grow the tech eco-system there. He was one of the creator-leaders of the Founders Roundtable, mentored at several startup weekends, was one of the organizers of the annual UpNext Festival, and facilitated angel investment and/or M&A. Most of all, he rolled up his sleeves any way he could to help local tech companies be successful. He has also served on the Boards of Coder Kids and ExecuStar, was a member of the PA House of Representatives Emerging Technologies Taskforce, and was a member of the Commercialization Advisory Board for Penn State Hershey Medical Center. In his leisure time he carves sculptures out of marble and alabaster, is working on completing a book about Strategic Focus Alignment and, as a team with his amazing wife, perpetually seek that elusive 7 No-Trump contract in Bridge.

Joe Chiarella, Startup Infrastructure Chair

Uniting & Promoting Technology Education Communication Collaboration Innovation in Sunny Southwest Florida

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