Michael Gastinel

Power Plant Systems Technician, IC&E Technician, and Power Plant Operator

Michael Gastinel is a power generation technician with nearly a decade 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 equipment. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology and values mentoring junior staff, improving plant reliability, and maintaining operational efficiency. Throughout his career, he has remained committed to teamwork, technical growth, and safety within the power generation industry.

Early Life and Background

He was born and raised in Granbury, Texas, as the youngest of three siblings. Growing up in a supportive family, he was encouraged to work hard, act with integrity, and serve others. These principles shaped his character and later influenced his professional approach.

His early life revolved around school, church, and Scouting. He regularly attended Catholic Mass with his family and actively participated in the Boy Scouts of America. His dedication to Scouting and consistent effort earned him the rank of Eagle Scout in 2008. The experience taught him valuable lessons in discipline, leadership, and perseverance—qualities that would later serve him well in his technical and professional life.

Introduction to Trades and Higher Education

After graduating from Granbury High School in 2008, Michael took a year off to gain work experience before beginning college. During that time, he worked as a sheet metal mechanic, introducing him to the skilled trades and hands-on problem-solving. The role allowed him to apply precision, mechanical ability, and a strong work ethic to practical tasks.

However, the Great Recession created difficult economic conditions, and like many in the trades, he faced a layoff. Instead of seeing it as a setback, he viewed it as an opportunity to refocus and pursue higher education. He initially enrolled in a Computer Science program, thinking it aligned with his interests in technology and systems. After a few semesters, he discovered that his true passion lay in applied electronics and electrical systems, which led him to switch to Electrical Engineering Technology. This discipline combined theory with hands-on application.

Balancing his studies 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 technical foundation, improved his analytical skills, and taught him to approach challenges patiently and persistently.

Breaking Into the Energy Sector

After completing his degree, Michael Victor Gastinel found a job posting for a Combustion Turbine Specialist in Ohio. Despite limited direct experience in the field, he applied and was offered the position by Troy Energy, LLC. This marked the beginning of his professional journey in the power generation industry.

At Troy Energy, his work involved operating combustion turbines, managing instrumentation, calibrating equipment, troubleshooting systems, and overseeing emissions monitoring. He handled responsibilities such as NERC compliance reporting, maintaining Continuous Emissions Monitoring Systems (CEMS), and managing GADS data through MicroGADSgold. His contributions also included documentation, mentoring new employees, and supporting a NERC audit that concluded with no findings.

This position gave him a strong understanding of turbine operations and regulatory standards. It also reinforced his interest in working with complex systems and maintaining plant reliability through careful monitoring and preventive maintenance.

Moving Back to Texas

After several years in Ohio, he had the opportunity to return to Texas and continue his work in the energy sector. In 2022, he joined Luminant Generation Company, LLC, one of the state’s largest power generation providers. His first assignment was at the Forney Plant, where he worked as a Plant Technician 3.

At Forney, his duties included system inspections, outside operations, electrical and instrumentation troubleshooting, and water chemistry testing. He was also responsible for preventive and corrective maintenance and assisted with plant performance and reliability improvements. His ability to combine technical precision with collaboration made him an essential part of the operations team.

When the opportunity to transfer to the DeCordova Power Plant in Granbury arose, he accepted, returning to his hometown. His performance led to promotions—first to Instrument and Controls Technician 4 and then to Plant Systems Technician.

At DeCordova, his technical expertise expanded. His familiarity with GE 7FA turbines allowed him to adapt to the GE 7EA platform quickly. His experience with DCS systems, such as GE Mark VI and Emerson Ovation, supported plant operations and maintenance. He worked on SunGrow battery energy storage systems, performed calibrations during outages, and participated in high-voltage switching and troubleshooting. He also served as the Behavior-Based Safety Champion, promoting safety awareness and preventive risk management.

Teamwork and Mentorship

He has consistently demonstrated a commitment to teamwork and mentorship throughout his career. Across multiple facilities, he has trained and guided new technicians, helping them understand systems, safety procedures, and troubleshooting methods. His approach to leadership emphasizes patience, mutual respect, and shared learning.

Gastinel believes that a power plant's success depends not only on technical expertise but also on cooperation and communication among team members. For him, a well-functioning team built on trust and collaboration ensures safe, efficient, and consistent operations. His mentoring style reflects his belief that knowledge should be shared openly, as this strengthens both individual growth and collective performance.

Outside of Work

Away from the plant, he leads a balanced and active lifestyle. He is a lifelong car enthusiast who enjoys learning about new automotive technologies, maintaining his vehicles, and attending car shows and cruise events. His passion for cars extends beyond driving to understanding how mechanical systems work and evolve.

He is also interested in electronics and enjoys do-it-yourself projects such as building PCs, assembling speaker systems, and working with electronics kits. His hobbies include golf, exercise, watching sports, trail riding, and spending quality time with family. He occasionally participates in 5K runs and values staying active and healthy.

His Catholic faith remains an integral part of his life. He continues to participate in church activities and occasionally contributes to charitable initiatives. His faith provides balance and perspective, reinforcing the same values of service and discipline that guided him in his youth.

Michael Gastinel continues to advance his career in power generation, focusing on safety, reliability, and mentorship. His dedication to technical excellence and teamwork, along with his steady and humble approach, reflects his ongoing commitment to professional development and the success of those around him.