Powering the Next Generation: Valvoline™ Global Expands Aspiring Mechanics Program to Spain
Initiative launches ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix, supplying local students with tools, trackside access, and mentorship.
MADRID, Sept. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Valvoline™ Global Operations, The Original Motor Oil1 and worldwide leader in automotive and industrial solutions, today announced a continued expansion in Europe of its Aspiring Mechanics Program, ahead of the highly anticipated Spanish Grand Prix.
Launched in October 2025, the program is designed to inspire and support the next generation of mechanics. As the global automotive industry faces a shortage of skilled workers, Valvoline Global has committed $1 million USD over the next five years to support at least 10,000 aspiring mechanics through product and tool donations, scholarships and local engagement programs.
Accelerating the Future of Automotive Talent
First introduced in 2025, Valvoline continues to expand the program with activations in seven countries. The Aspiring Mechanics Program will come to life for the first time in Spain ahead of the Spanish Grand Prix through a strategic collaboration with a local automotive vocational school, CESUR Madrid Intea Jarama.
During the week, students from the school will participate in hands-on learning at a local mechanic's workshop, facilitated by Miguel Faisca, Head of Esports at Aston Martin Aramco Formula One™ Team. Additionally, a select group of students will receive exclusive trackside access to Aston Martin Aramco's garage for a firsthand experience of how mechanics operate at the highest level of racing.
To further support the program, Valvoline Global is teaming up with FA Alonso Kart to donate a go-kart to the school, providing a hands-on training asset to enrich student learning over the course of the school year.
"Valvoline Global's Aspiring Mechanics Program was created to spark interest and remove barriers that might keep students from pursuing a career as a mechanic, at a time when the world needs more mechanics," said Michael Kirtman, Valvoline Global's Chief Brand Officer. "As The Original Motor Oil, we are investing in programs that inspire, support and celebrate mechanics globally is an investment in those who keep our world moving forward."
Original Programs, Products, and Campaigns Underscore Continued Growth in Europe
The expansion of the educational program across Europe reflects Valvoline's strategic growth in the region, as also evidenced by the introduction of Valvoline's category-defining product, Restore & Protect, which launched in Europe in July.
Valvoline Restore & Protect, the only motor oil proven to remove up to 100%2 of engine-killing deposits, will be on display at "The Originals Garage", an immersive activation event and private car meet showcasing Valvoline Restore & Protect and The Original Motor Oil brand on Saturday, September 12th. The event will be hosted at TAUTO, a local automotive repair workshop.
Valvoline will also share highlights from its race week experiences across digital channels with dedicated social media content running throughout the weekend. The brand's social campaign will spotlight inspirational stories from participating vocational students alongside featured mechanics, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the technical passion, hands-on learning, and community driving the next generation of the automotive industry.
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About Valvoline™ Global Operations
Valvoline™ Global, being America's first branded motor oil, is powering the next generation of mobility through innovation for customers in 140+ countries and at more than 80,000 points of distribution. A worldwide leader in future-ready automotive and industrial solutions and best-in-class services for partners around the globe, our legacy of firsts spans 160 years.
With solutions available for every engine and drivetrain, from high-mileage and heavy duty to electric vehicles, Valvoline™ Global is inventing the way forward for mobility and beyond, expanding its heat transfer solutions to high-performance computing.
Together with our parent company Aramco, one of the world's leading integrated energy and chemicals companies, we are driving unparalleled product innovation and sustainable business solutions for what the future holds – on and off the road.
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™ Trademark, Valvoline Global or its subsidiaries, registered in various countries.
1 All references to "The Original Motor Oil" in this article is referenced in the context of celebrating Valvoline's heritage as being America's First Motor Oil Brand.
2 Up to 100% piston deposit removal when used as directed for four or more consecutive oil changes at standard maintenance intervals. Based on adapted sequence IIH testing.
SOURCE Valvoline Global Operations
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