He joined Hanes Corporation the next month and worked for Hanes and Sara Lee for 32 years in corporate management and quality control. He managed and directed quality control throughout plants that produced pantyhose, socks, and underwear and traveled throughout the United States, Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean.
Mike voluntarily retired from Sara Lee Branded Apparel in 2005 at age 58.
During the past 15 years, Mabe has been a High School Substitute teacher and has subbed 1000 days, mostly at Reagan High School in Pfafftown.
Mike serves on the Northwest Piedmont Purple Heart Foundation, attends many Veterans Coffee gatherings in the area, and otherwise serves to promote veterans to the honor they deserve.