Ryan Bazil, an IT specialist with Florida Power & Light’s (FPL) nuclear fleet, is working to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). Drawing from his own journey, Bazil uses his experience to mentor students and promote innovation in the field.
Bazil initially aspired to become a professional soccer player. “My whole life was centered around sports and playing soccer,” he recalled. His career trajectory shifted after a conversation with his father during eighth grade. “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.’”
While Bazil continued to play soccer through high school and college, he also enrolled in the Boynton Aerospace Science Academy at Boynton Beach Community High School. The program introduces students to aviation fundamentals and offers pathways to careers as commercial pilots and aviation professionals.
Bazil later earned a degree in aerospace science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, with a minor in cybersecurity and drones. He developed a passion for sharing his knowledge of aviation and aerospace.
At FPL, Bazil applies advanced 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 also mentors 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 when working with students: “It’s okay to make mistakes,” he tells the middle and high school students he works with. “That’s part of being human.” Bazil recently served as a judge at the first-ever FPL-sponsored Drones in School state championship held at Embry Riddle, where his former high school participated.
“The younger generation learns quickly. They are very intuitive and good with the controls. This is their real-life video game.”
Bazil sees these competitions as opportunities that can have a lasting impact on participants’ futures. “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.”
Looking ahead, Bazil hopes drone competitions will gain broader recognition: “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 supports STEM education through initiatives like Drones in School, reflecting its commitment to preparing future innovators who will help meet Florida’s energy needs.
For more information about FPL Education programs and resources, visit FPL.com/education.
