Mike Powell retired in 1990 from Eastman Chemical where he was a paramedic. He used his paramedic experience to teach at Midlands Tech, where he trained many of Lexington County's  first EMS personnel. Because of his passion for photography he opened Powell Photography in 1990. In 1999 he established Powell and Associates, a safety, environmental, fire consulting business. During this time he raised two wonderful daughters - Leanne (39) and Stacey (38). He married Tonya in 2000 and together they enjoy spoiling their 3 grandchildren - Lindsey (12), Brightman (9), and Scottie (8).