Meet the Charmers is a series spotlighting the talented team behind Charm Industrial working to return Earth’s atmosphere to 280 ppm CO₂.

Today, I’m excited to introduce you to Gabe Higgins, one of our awesome Injection Operators based in El Dorado, Kansas.

Gabe, let’s start from the beginning—tell us about yourself. Where did you grow up and what’s your family’s connection to the oil industry?

I’ve lived in El Dorado, Kansas my whole life.

Family is everything to me and my family’s connection to the oil industry runs deep. My great-grandfather, and grandmother both worked at the Skelly Refinery. My dad worked in construction & oil and gas his entire life. I started working in the oil field right after high school at 17—taking on a summer job as a laborer and pipe tester. I later worked at the refinery as an operator for about a year and a half, experiencing firsthand the pride and technical expertise of those who work in the industry. 

How did faith play a role in you coming to work at Charm?

My faith has been a constant throughout my life. Growing up I not only saw the hard work of my dad in his career but also absorbed the values of service and integrity that came from my church and family discussions. I’ve always believed that God has a bigger purpose for me, whether it’s through the work I do or simply by being a light in the world.  Although I once considered joining the military to serve, when my wife got pregnant, I knew I needed to stay close to family.  I even worked as a local police officer for a couple of years because I wanted to serve my community directly. 

Even while facing personal battles- like my 2022 cancer diagnosis, the radiation treatment, chemo treatment, multiple surgeries through 2025 and the continued cancer battle— I hold onto the conviction that every twist in my journey is a part of Gods greater plan. Working at Charm connects to my faith because it’s not just another job; it’s a way to do something productive for the earth, to protect our home for future generations, and to serve others. It’s a chance to bridge the legacy of traditional energy work with the need for a cleaner, more sustainable future—all while staying true to the values I was raised with.

What’s it like working at Charm today:

Now, at Charm, I’m part of a team that’s reinventing how we put skills honed in the oil industry to use for a new purpose - removing carbon from the atmosphere. I get to blend the practical, hands-on skills I learned in the oil fields with a deeper purpose: protecting the earth, caring for my community, and ensuring a better future for my kids. Even though I’m facing challenges with my health, I remain committed to this mission, believing that every step I take is part of a larger, God-given plan.

What do you like to get up to outside of Charm?

Outside of working for Charm, I mostly just spend my time with family and friends. I enjoy taking my kids on walks to enjoy the nature trails around the lake. Or just go down to the local park and let them play on the playgrounds. When I get time, I enjoy going to the local shooting range to brush up on some firearm training and target practice.