Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) helps generate more than just energy for the communities it serves. For the second year in a row, the company is excited to offer the EmPower Girls program – very unique science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) workshops.

EmPower Girls started last year with members of the FPL team who worked side-by-side with middle and high school-aged girls from local communities to see what kind of careers exist in the energy industry. As part of the workshop, girls experienced labs, hands-on activities and discussions exposing them to what it takes to work in one of FPL’s many power plants, including fossil and solar. This year, two workshops took place – one in Palm Beach County and the other in St. Lucie County.

Annie Paskavitch, plant manager for FPL’s clean energy centers, is responsible for leading teams in the production of safe, affordable, reliable and clean energy. From a young age, Annie had the curiosity of how things are made, but it was her first experience working in a power plant that made her want to run her own.

“I am so excited to be part of EmPower Girls again this year,” said Annie. “As an FPL plant manager, I’m lucky to work for a company that wants to provide our next generation of teammates the information and ideas to pursue career paths through math and science. I wish there had been more of these types of programs when I grew up, but I’m thrilled to be able to help educate these young ladies about how electricity is generated. Not only will these girls learn engineering skills, they will also learn about teamwork, creativity and other vital talents to thrive in tomorrow’s competitive work environment.”

FPL is working together with the communities it serves to help make Florida an even better place to work and raise a family. Learning about these opportunities at a younger age will help prepare girls for exciting and well-paid jobs in the future.