Ryan Bazil, an IT specialist with Florida Power & Light (FPL), is working to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Bazil’s path to a career in aerospace technology began with a conversation with his father in eighth grade, which encouraged him to consider options beyond his initial dream of becoming a professional soccer player.
“My whole life was centered around sports and playing soccer,” Bazil recalled. He described how his father advised him: “My dad suggested I think about having a backup plan. He said, ‘You should look at a different career field because you never know. Nothing in life is a given. Injuries can happen.’”
Bazil attended Boynton Aerospace Science Academy at Boynton Beach Community High School, a program designed to introduce students to aviation fundamentals and career pathways in aviation. He later earned a degree in aerospace science with a minor in cybersecurity and drones from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.
At FPL, Bazil uses technology such as drones and robotics to improve safety and efficiency at the company’s nuclear plants. “We’re starting this new program for innovation through our IT department, incorporating drones and robotics to help reduce how often our engineers and operators are going into radiation areas,” he explains.
Bazil is also involved in mentoring students through FPL’s Drones in School initiative. “I want to see more youth involved in technology and STEM,” Bazil says. “There’s so much growth in aerospace and robotics. I want to be a person who opens up a shortcut for students – to get them where they want to be.”
He emphasizes the importance of learning from mistakes. “It’s okay to make mistakes,” he tells the middle and high school students he works with. “That’s part of being human.” Bazil has served as a judge at the FPL-sponsored first ever Drones in School state championship at Embry Riddle, with Boynton Beach High School participating.
“The younger generation learns quickly. They are very intuitive and good with the controls. This is their real-life video game,” Bazil observes.
He sees these competitions as opportunities for students. “When kids win nationals, you never know where that could lead,” he explains, “They get to travel and see parts of the world they never thought they’d see at that age.”
Bazil hopes drone competitions will become nationally televised events, offering more opportunities for students interested in aerospace careers. He shares advice with young people: “Continue to be patient and don’t say no to anything. You have to be open to everything because you never know what route can open up just from saying yes to something.”
FPL’s support of STEM education through initiatives like Drones in School and the involvement of employees such as Bazil highlights the company’s commitment to preparing future innovators needed for Florida’s energy sector.
For additional information about FPL Education programs and resources, visit FPL.com/education.
