Ryan Bazil, an IT specialist in Florida Power & Light’s (FPL) nuclear fleet, is working to inspire students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Bazil, who originally aspired to a career as a professional soccer player, shifted his focus to aerospace engineering after a conversation with his father during eighth grade. His father encouraged him to consider other career options as a backup plan.
Bazil attended Boynton Beach Community High School and participated in the Boynton Aerospace Science Academy. The academy aims to introduce students to aviation fundamentals and open pathways toward careers as pilots and aviation professionals.
After high school, Bazil earned a degree in aerospace science with a minor in cybersecurity and drones from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. He developed an interest in sharing his knowledge of aviation and aerospace with others.
At FPL, Bazil helps implement technologies such as drones and robotics at the company’s two 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 learning from failure when working with middle and high school students. “It’s okay to make mistakes,” he tells them. “That’s part of being human.” Bazil has served as a judge at the FPL-sponsored Drones in School state championship at Embry Riddle, where his former high school competed.
“The younger generation learns quickly. They are very intuitive and good with the controls. This is their real-life video game,” Bazil says.
Bazil sees these competitions as opportunities for students beyond academics. “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 become nationally televised events that provide more opportunities for student participants. He encourages 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 supports STEM education through initiatives like Drones in School and through employees such as Bazil. The company states these efforts reflect its commitment to supporting innovation needed for Florida’s growing energy needs. More information about FPL’s education programs can be found at FPL.com/education.
