Valvoline Global to Partner with The HILL

Aspiring Mechanics Program will support our students’ dreams.

Lexington-based Valvoline Global is launching a five-year, $1 million automotive workforce initiative called Aspiring Mechanics Program, which aims to expand career pathways for the next generation of automotive mechanics. As part of this effort, the company will partner with The Hub for Innovative Learning & Leadership (HILL) in Fayette County Public Schools to engage and prepare more local students for high-demand careers in the automotive industry.

“Providing students opportunities is an important part of our organization. How do we enable others to have success and grow?” Jamal Muashsher, Valvoline’s president and CEO, told students gathered at The HILL. “Your commitment is important to our industry,” he added.

The Valvoline Global investment at a critical time as the automotive industry faces a projected global shortage of 4.3 million skilled workers by 2030. According to the TechForce Foundation, more than 820,000 automotive mechanics will be needed in the United States alone between now and 2028 — not including aviation mechanics, which adds another 150,000 needed workers. To help close this gap, Valvoline Global aims to support as many as 10,000 aspiring mechanics worldwide through locally driven school partnerships, hands-on training, and scholarships. 

“Today reflects what’s possible when industry and education come together,” Michelle Wilson, principal at The HILL, said at Wednesday afternoon's media event. “This partnership gives our students authentic pathways into high-demand careers where their skills will make an immediate difference. With Valvoline Global championing our students, they can clearly see a future for themselves in a field where they are truly needed and valued."

Watch the Video

Earlier, Muashsher toured The HILL’s diesel and automotive technology areas, guided by sophomore Marciana Kates of Lafayette High School. He was impressed with the cutting-edge curriculum and world-class facilities where our students learn about everything from air brake systems and commercial vehicle inspection requirements to small-engine pistons, lift operation, and much more. 

Marciana, who first heard about The HILL through a job fair, signed up for classes in both the diesel and automotive programs. “I really like to take things apart and learn how they work. That’s basically a mechanic’s job,” she said. “I feel like this is really the field for me.”