Michael was elected chair of the Catawba County Democratic Party in 2023. Prior to being elected, he served as treasurer and held other various roles with the county party. Outside of politics, Michael runs a private investment fund and has 18 years of experience in the investment industry. Michael is a member of the Hickory Public Art Commission, Hickory Library Advisory Board, and Rotary Club of Hickory. He also serves on the board of the College of Business at Western Carolina University.