PALM CITY, Fla. — Discipline and teamwork are at the center of everything Florida Power & Light Company (FPL) data scientist Khamsouksavanh “Kham” Sanvoravong does. Whether analyzing outage data or paddling in a six-person outrigger canoe race, he approaches each challenge with focus, consistency and a relentless drive to improve.
"I like the feeling of accomplishment," he says. "When I exercise or compete, it clears my head and relieves stress. That helps me maintain better focus afterward, which carries over into how I approach my work."
Sanvoravong joined FPL more than five years ago, bringing a strong foundation in electrical engineering and a degree in data science. He has also completed advanced studies in artificial intelligence, machine learning, data science and information systems. When looking for new career opportunities, he was drawn to FPL's innovative use of emerging technologies.
“I saw that FPL was doing research on drones and using LiDAR technology and geospatial sensors,” he says. “It sounded like a fun and meaningful thing to be part of.”
During his time at the company, he has helped strengthen FPL’s grid systems—the advanced technologies that monitor and manage the electric grid—making them smarter and more efficient. By using data and advanced tools, he helps detect and prevent problems before they happen, to ensure reliable service for FPL’s approximately 12 million customers across Florida.
"We use smart sensors and their measurements to improve grid reliability and predict potential issues that could lead to outages," says Sanvoravong. "The goal is to identify those issues early so we can address them before they impact customers."
Those innovations have paid off: in 2024 alone, FPL’s smart grid technology helped avoid about 2.7 million customer outages.
Outside the office, Sanvoravong channels that same focus into outrigger canoeing—a demanding team sport that mirrors the coordination and communication needed in his work. As part of the Palm Beach Outrigger Canoe Club, he recently raced in the Lanakila Iki Ocean Challenge in Hollywood, Fla.
“Everyone in the canoe has a role,” he explains. “You learn to trust your teammates. Communication is key.”
That lesson in teamwork directly translates to his work at FPL.
“Through paddling, I've learned the importance of clear communication and supporting your team," Sanvoravong says. "At work, it's the same approach—you communicate your needs, listen to others and work together so everyone succeeds.”
When he’s not on the water, Sanvoravong finds another outlet for focus and creativity in ballroom dancing, a passion he discovered after the COVID-19 pandemic. Earlier this year, he competed internationally in Portugal, earning a bronze medal in his division.
“In dance, you have to read the floor—see where people are, where you’re going, how you’ll move next,” he says. “With data, it’s similar. You analyze the information in front of you, look for what stands out and use that insight to predict what happens next.”
For Sanvoravong, whether he’s on the water, on the dance floor or at the office, the goal is the same: continuous improvement and teamwork in service of something larger.
“Through these hobbies, I’ve learned to be more confident, more empathetic and to communicate better,” he says. “Everyone faces challenges, and there's more than one way to solve a problem. We all bring different experiences and knowledge to the table, so when we support each other, we all get stronger.”
That mindset mirrors the teamwork that powers FPL’s industry-leading service reliability every day.
“In sports, that means trusting your dance partner or crew,” he says. “At FPL, it means knowing that we’re all part of one team, working together to keep Florida’s lights on.”
Ron Natter, FPL’s longest-tenured employee, began his career nearly six decades ago. As FPL marks its centennial year, his journey reflects a legacy of dedication and innovation.
For more than 40 years, Isaiah Kelley has shared his passion for learning—empowering customers to save energy and inspiring students to reach their full potential, one lesson at a time.