61Michael Gastinel is a power generation technician with nearly ten years of experience in utility-scale energy operations. Based in Granbury, Texas, he specializes in plant systems, instrumentation and controls, and turbine operations. His background includes working with GE 7FA and 7EA turbines and using DCS platforms such as GE Mark VI and Emerson Ovation. He also has experience in emissions compliance systems. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering Technology and is dedicated to mentoring new technicians, improving plant reliability, and maintaining operational efficiency.
He was born and raised in Granbury, Texas, as the youngest of three siblings in a family that valued hard work, discipline, and service. His upbringing was shaped by participation in school, church, and Scouts. Regular attendance at Catholic Mass and involvement with the Boy Scouts of America taught him teamwork, leadership, and responsibility. Through his dedication, he earned the rank of Eagle Scout in 2008, a milestone that reflected his persistence and commitment to growth.
After graduating from Granbury High School in 2008, he took a year off to gain real-world experience and started working as a sheet metal mechanic. When the Great Recession caused widespread layoffs, he viewed it as an opportunity to pursue higher education. Initially majoring in Computer Science, he later discovered his true passion for applied electronics and electrical systems, which led him to change his field of study to Electrical Engineering Technology. Balancing part-time work with his studies, he earned his Bachelor of Science from The University of Toledo in 2015.
After completing his degree, he began his professional career at Troy Energy, LLC in Ohio as a Combustion Turbine Specialist. His responsibilities included turbine operations, calibrations, instrumentation, troubleshooting, and managing emissions data. He handled NERC compliance reporting, maintained CEMS and GADS systems, trained new hires, and contributed to a successful NERC audit.
In 2022, Michael Victor Gastinel returned to Texas to join Luminant Generation Company, LLC, first at the Forney Plant and later at the DeCordova Power Plant in his hometown. His work expanded to include turbine operations, DCS troubleshooting, and battery energy storage systems. He also served as the Behavior-Based Safety Champion, helping strengthen the plant’s safety culture.
Michael Gastinel enjoys cars, electronics, golf, fitness, and spending time with family outside of work. His Catholic faith continues to guide him as he remains active in his community and committed to personal and professional growth.