The future of innovation is already taking shape in Miami-Dade County, where dozens of high school students recently participated in an immersive educational experience that highlighted the long-term impact of STEM investment. Made possible through the ongoing commitment of Florida Power & Light (FPL), the initiative underscores the company’s growing role in preparing the next generation for careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
Ahead of the 2026 Miami E-Prix from the Formula E championship, students from several local high schools were granted rare behind-the-scenes access to the world of electric racing at the Miami International Autodrome. During the visit, participants walked the track, explored the pit lane, toured the garages, and tested racing simulators — gaining firsthand insight into the technology, teamwork, and precision required to operate a global motorsports event.
Yet beyond the excitement of race-day preparation, the true story lies in the educational pathway that made the experience possible. Every participating school features an FPL-sponsored Electrathon team, an initiative that challenges students to design and build electric vehicles from the ground up. Through this process, students strengthen critical skills such as problem-solving, collaboration, creativity, and analytical thinking — competencies increasingly essential in today’s technology-driven workforce.
Schools that took part in the experience included Hialeah Gardens High School, Miami Lakes Educational Center, South Dade Senior High School, TERRA Environmental Research Institute, and Miami Carol City Senior High School, demonstrating the program’s reach across diverse communities within the county.
This marked the second consecutive year that FPL partnered with Formula E to deliver a real-world STEM learning opportunity during race week — a collaboration that illustrates how industry and education can work together to open doors for students. By bridging classroom instruction with practical application, the program helps young learners envision themselves in high-demand careers tied to clean energy, engineering, and advanced technology.
The Electrathon program does more than inspire career ambitions; it equips students with tools to succeed in a rapidly evolving job market increasingly shaped by electrification and sustainability. As STEM fields continue to drive economic growth, initiatives like this strengthen both individual academic pathways and the broader regional talent pipeline.
FPL’s sustained investment reflects a clear understanding that supporting education is fundamental to building stronger communities. By expanding access to transformative experiences, the company is helping cultivate future innovators, engineers, and leaders who may one day power the next wave of technological advancement.
For the students involved, the experience was far more than a field trip — it was a powerful reminder that their aspirations are within reach. And for Miami-Dade, it signals that the workforce of tomorrow is already accelerating forward.
