Houston District Innovation (SBIR/STTR) Recipient of the Year: Bryton Praslicka – FluxWorks

Bryton Praslicka of Fluxworks in a brown blazer and glasses

Dr. Bryton Praslicka, founder and CEO of FluxWorks, Inc., launched the Texas-based company with a vision to bring advanced engineering innovations out of the lab and into real-world applications. What began as an idea during his PhD at Texas A&M quickly evolved into a mission-driven business focused on improving the performance, safety, and efficiency of systems used in robotics, defense, and space exploration. 

FluxWorks started modestly in Dr. Praslicka’s garage in College Station, where early concepts were developed into working prototypes. Through participation in NASA and Army SBIR programs, the company advanced its core technologies from early-stage research into operational demonstrations, laying the groundwork for real-world use. These efforts enabled the company to refine its designs and begin transitioning from research and development into commercialization. 

SBA support has played a critical role in this journey. Through guidance from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), including UTSA-SBDC-TCC consulting, FluxWorks strengthened its financial planning and successfully secured early SBIR funding. In 2024, the company obtained an SBA loan that supported facility expansion and manufacturing certification—key milestones that allowed FluxWorks to begin producing high-quality, industry-ready systems. These advancements also helped attract private-sector interest and investment, accelerating the company’s growth trajectory. 

Today, FluxWorks is a growing leader in advanced actuation and control systems that improve reliability and efficiency in robotics and autonomous platforms. The company serves customers across government, defense, and industrial automation sectors, with expanding interest from commercial partners. Strategic collaborations have also enabled FluxWorks to enter new markets, including food and beverage and consumer packaged goods automation. The company has experienced significant growth in both facilities and workforce. From its early days in a garage, FluxWorks now operates out of a 9,000-square-foot manufacturing, testing and integration facility in Conroe, Texas. Plans are underway to further expand capacity to meet increasing demand and support higher-volume production. 

Beyond its business success, FluxWorks is committed to giving back. Dr. Praslicka actively supports students and underserved communities through mentorship, scholarships, and service. He serves on the Terry Foundation Advisory Board, helped establish the Terry Alumni Chapter in College Station, and created the FluxWorks Engineering Scholarship to support first-generation engineering students. Locally, he contributes to STEM education initiatives and community programs that encourage the next generation of innovators. 

Due to their continued success, FluxWorks is the recipient of the 2026 Houston District Innovation (SBIR/STTR) Recipient of the Year.

This article does not constitute or imply an endorsement by the SBA of any opinions, products, or services of any private individual or entity.