Michael Gastinel
Power Plant Systems Technician, IC&E Technician, and Power Plant Operator
Michael Gastinel is a power generation technician with nearly ten years of experience in utility-scale energy operations. Based in Granbury, Texas, he focuses on plant systems, instrumentation and controls, and turbine operations His expertise includes working with GE 7FA and 7EA turbines, DCS systems such as GE Mark VI and Emerson Ovation, and emissions compliance systems He earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology He takes pride in guiding younger team members, improving system reliability, and maintaining operational efficiency throughout the plants he has served.
Early Life and Background
He was born and raised in Granbury, Texas, the youngest of three siblings in a family that valued hard work and community service. Growing up in a supportive household, he learned early the importance of integrity and consistency principles that would guide him throughout his personal and professional life.
A steady routine of school, church, and Scouting shaped his youth Regular attendance at Catholic Mass with his family instilled a lasting sense of faith and discipline. Participation in the Boy Scouts of America allowed him to build leadership and problem-solving skills, culminating in
achieving the Eagle Scout rank in 2008 These formative experiences helped him develop a strong work ethic, self-reliance, and respect for teamwork.
Introduction to Trades and Higher Education
After completing his studies at Granbury High School in 2008, he decided to take a year off before attending college During that period, he began working as a sheet metal mechanic This role introduced him to the trades, where he gained firsthand experience in mechanical systems, craftsmanship, and hands-on troubleshooting.
However, the economic downturn caused by the Great Recession led to widespread layoffs, and his position was among those affected. Rather than seeing this as a setback, he used the opportunity to shift his focus toward long-term career development He decided to pursue higher education with a clear intention of building a stable and meaningful profession.
Initially, he enrolled in a Computer Science program, believing it aligned with his interest in technology. However, after several semesters, he realized his real passion was applied electronics and electrical systems fields that combined technical theory with practical problem-solving This realization guided him toward Electrical Engineering Technology, where he could connect his technical curiosity to real-world applications.
Balancing classes with part-time work, he completed his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology at The University of Toledo in 2015. His time there strengthened his analytical thinking and gave him a strong foundation in electrical systems and plant technologies. The experience also reinforced his belief in persistence and lifelong learning, which would later define his approach to work in the energy sector
Breaking Into the Energy Sector
Shortly after graduating, he found a job listing for a Combustion Turbine Specialist in Ohio. Despite having limited industry experience, he decided to apply and was offered the position by Troy Energy, LLC This marked the beginning of his career in power generation
At Troy Energy, he managed various technical responsibilities, including turbine operations, instrumentation, calibrations, troubleshooting, and emissions monitoring. His daily work required careful attention to detail and compliance with safety and environmental standards
Some of his early achievements included maintaining Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS), performing NERC compliance reporting, and managing GADS data using MicroGADSgold He contributed to a NERC audit that concluded with no findings, supported documentation improvements, and mentored newer employees. This career phase helped him develop a deep understanding of plant operations and reinforced his ability to work under demanding conditions.
Moving Back to Texas
After gaining several years of valuable experience in Ohio, he had an opportunity to return to Texas and continue advancing in his field In 2022, he joined Luminant Generation Company, LLC, one of the state’s leading power generation providers. His first assignment was at the Forney Plant, where he served as a Plant Technician 3
At Forney, his work included daily system checks, outside operations, electrical and instrumentation troubleshooting, and water chemistry testing He was involved in both preventive and corrective maintenance and played a role in improving operational reliability His approach combined steady execution with a focus on long-term plant performance.
Later, he transferred to the DeCordova Power Plant in Granbury, returning to his hometown while continuing to grow in his career He was soon promoted to Instrument and Controls Technician 4 and later to Plant Systems Technician
At DeCordova, his role expanded to include work with GE 7EA turbines, further building on his prior experience with GE 7FA models His understanding of GE Mark VI and Emerson Ovation DCS systems made him an asset to the plant. He worked directly on SunGrow battery energy storage systems, took part in calibrations during outages, and handled high-voltage switching and troubleshooting His adaptability and consistency contributed to plant reliability and operational improvement.
In addition to technical duties, he took on the role of Behavior-Based Safety Champion, where he promoted safe work practices and a proactive safety culture His leadership demonstrated that attention to detail, clear communication, and mutual accountability are key to safety and productivity.
Teamwork and Mentorship
Throughout his career, he has placed strong emphasis on teamwork and mentoring He has trained new technicians across the plants he has worked at, guided them through procedures, and shared effective troubleshooting techniques His approach to mentorship centers on practical learning and mutual respect.
He believes that plant success depends not only on technical ability but also on the team's strength. Trust, clear communication, and shared goals form the foundation of reliable operations By creating a culture of support and continuous improvement, he contributes to the long-term success of both individuals and the plant
Outside of Work
Away from work, he leads a balanced and active lifestyle. A lifelong car enthusiast, he enjoys learning about automotive technology, maintaining his own vehicles, and attending car shows or local cruise events His interest in mechanics extends beyond work, blending technical curiosity with personal enjoyment.
He is also passionate about electronics and enjoys do-it-yourself projects such as building PCs, assembling speakers, and experimenting with electronic kits. Other hobbies include golf, exercising, trail riding, and spending time with family He occasionally participates in 5K runs and enjoys watching sports in his free time
His Catholic faith plays a meaningful role in his life, influencing his outlook and encouraging him to participate in charitable activities through his church when possible.
Michael Gastinel continues advancing his career in power generation, focusing on reliability, safety, and teamwork. His steady commitment to learning, mentorship, and professionalism reflects his belief in doing quality work and contributing to the success of those around him