Gaul, originally from Lombard, Illinois, attended Luther College in Decorah, Iowa and received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Biology. He received his Master of Science Degree in Horticulture from Iowa State University. From 1986-1998 Gaul worked in the ISU Horticulture Department and was actively involved in teaching, advising, placement and recruitment activities for undergraduate students. Mike was recognized for his efforts in these areas with the Iowa Regents Award for Staff Excellence in 1998. In June 1998, upon retirement of Roger Bruene, he was appointed Director of Agriculture and Life Sciences Career Services at Iowa State and is actively involved with full-time and internship placement of college students and alumni. He is a three-time consultant for the 5 year USDA/NIFA Employment Opportunities for College Graduates in Food, Renewable Energy, and the Environment, United States report. In May 2015 he was recognized with the Iowa State Alumni Association Faculty-Staff Inspiration award. Each October his office also hosts one of the nation’s largest annual Ag Career Day, with over 270 companies and 2,000 students in attendance.