The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Texas A&M University celebrates the success of its former students who continue to shape industries, lead groundbreaking research and inspire the next generation of engineers.
Hala Ballouz: 2025 Eminent Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Award Recipient
Hala Ballouz ’89 has dedicated her career to reimagining the future of energy. As president and CEO of Electric Power Engineers (EPE), Ballouz leads a rapidly growing team of more than 500 power systems engineers and energy professionals committed to transforming the electric grid. Under her guidance, EPE has pioneered software technology to process vast amounts of data and detailed asset models, an essential step in building a resilient, affordable and carbon-free energy future.
Her leadership has also driven EPE to an unprecedented milestone — being the first company to earn the Aggie 100 award eight consecutive years (2017–2024). Ballouz’s vision and commitment to advancing the power industry have made her a leader in her field and the Aggie network.
Zhou Li: 2025 Eminent Electrical and Computer Engineering Graduate Award Recipient
Dr. Zhou Li ’05 has distinguished himself as a leader in electronic design automation (EDA). Following seven years at IBM, Li joined Cadence Design Systems, a global leader in EDA technology, where he now serves as the senior software group director. His career is marked by more than 120 patents, innovative contributions to the industry and influential leadership roles.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Li remains engaged with the department, delivering seminars, guest lectures and mentorship. His service also extends to the global EDA community, highlighted by his role as the general chair of the Design Automation Conference, the premier global design automation event. Li exemplifies the spirit of innovation, service and dedication that the Eminent ECE Graduate Award was created to honor.
Bryton Praslicka: 2025 Electrical and Computer Engineering Rising Star Award Recipient
Just a few years into his career, Dr. Bryton Praslicka ’19 has already established himself as a leader in cutting-edge technology. As the CEO of FluxWorks, he heads a startup that designs advanced magnetic gears, devices that are quieter, more efficient and longer lasting than traditional gears. The Conroe-based company has secured contracts with high-profile customers, including the U.S. Army, NASA and Anduril, and is projected to reach $1.8 million in revenue this year.
FluxWorks is also preparing to test four of its gears on the International Space Station, where their performance in zero-gravity conditions will be evaluated. A Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, Praslicka represents the bold vision and entrepreneurial spirit of the next generation of Aggie leaders.
These former students demonstrate the far-reaching impact of an electrical and computer engineering degree from Texas A&M. From reimagining the nation’s energy future to advancing global technology and creating groundbreaking startups, their achievements show the transformative power of education, mentorship and perseverance.