Michael Gastinel

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 background includes working with GE 7FA and 7EA turbines and DCS platforms such as GE Mark VI and Emerson Ovation. He also has experience with emissions compliance systems. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology and is dedicated to mentoring team members, supporting plant reliability, and maintaining operational excellence through attention to detail and teamwork.

He was born and raised in Granbury, Texas, as the youngest of three siblings in a hardworking and close-knit family. His parents instilled strong values of discipline, responsibility, and service to others, which shaped his character and approach to life. During his youth, he spent much of his time in school, church, and the Scouts. Regular attendance at Catholic Mass and active participation in the Boy Scouts of America significantly influenced his early development. His dedication and leadership in Scouting led him to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout in 2008, an accomplishment that remains a source of pride.

After graduating from Granbury High School in 2008, Michael Victor Gastinel took a year off before attending college to gain real-world experience. He worked as a sheet metal mechanic, where he learned the value of precision and teamwork. When the Great Recession brought widespread layoffs, he chose to return to school and pursue a more stable career path. Initially studying Computer Science, he discovered his genuine interest in applied electronics and electrical systems, which led him to change his major to Electrical Engineering Technology. Balancing studies with part-time work, he completed his degree at The University of Toledo in 2015.

Following graduation, he began his career at Troy Energy, LLC in Ohio, as a Combustion Turbine Specialist. His duties included turbine operation, instrumentation management, calibrations, and troubleshooting. He also handled NERC compliance reporting, maintained CEMS and GADS systems, and mentored new hires. His contributions helped the team successfully complete an NERC audit with no findings.

In 2022, he returned to Texas to join Luminant Generation Company, LLC, working first at the Forney Plant and later transferring to the DeCordova Power Plant in his hometown. His responsibilities included turbine operations, DCS troubleshooting, and work with battery energy storage systems. His experience with GE turbines and DCS platforms allowed him to strengthen operational efficiency and reliability. He also served as the Behavior-Based Safety Champion, promoting safety culture and proactive team communication.

Outside work, he enjoys cars, electronics, golf, exercise, and spending time with family. A lifelong car enthusiast, he maintains his vehicles and enjoys attending car shows and local events. His Catholic faith remains essential to his life, guiding his values and community involvement. Michael Gastinel continues to build his career with dedication, professionalism, and a strong commitment to learning and teamwork.