Change is inevitable in the lubrication industry. From the transition to electric vehicles (EVs) to increasing sustainability demands, our field is evolving. While this may seem daunting to some, it also presents incredible opportunities—especially for professionals looking to build or expand their careers in this vital sector.
This article is inspired by a recent LinkedIn post of mine that garnered widespread attention and engagement. Here’s the image that sparked the discussion:
The message is clear: although the lubricant industry is experiencing contraction in some areas, the workforce is shrinking even faster. This creates an exciting paradox—greater opportunities for those who remain or enter the field.
Industry Challenges: A Shrinking Volume
The lubrication industry has traditionally been driven by engine oil demand. However, as engine technology advances and EV adoption accelerates, we’re seeing a gradual decline in this cornerstone market. Combined with longer drain intervals and increased engine efficiency, the volume of lubricant consumption is expected to decline.
But at first glance, this might seem like a career-limiting factor. In a sales-driven market we’re used to the idea that increasing volumes is a sign of a healthy industry. As many industry professionals pointed out in the LinkedIn discussion, this is only part of the story.
New Opportunities: Industrial Growth and Innovation
While passenger vehicle lubricants may decline, the demand for industrial lubricants is poised to grow. A global push for sustainability is driving mining, manufacturing, and construction activities to support renewable energy and EV production. These industries rely heavily on specialized lubricants to keep operations running efficiently.
As Aaron Said noted in his reply, “For passenger cars, yes [lubricant demand will decline], but for heavy duties, lubricants are needed more than ever because we need to mine more to support the production of EV vehicles.” This highlights the increasing complexity and importance of lubrication in industrial applications, paving the way for innovation and career growth.
Think about it; EV’s will need to be powered by electricity from the grid and if industry projections come to pass it will trigger an enormous mining boom. Likewise any push for sustainability will require a mix of bio-lubricants, wind turbine gear oils and greases, steam turbine oils for the nuclear industry and industrial lubricant volume to support circularity initiatives like waste collection and recycling.
A Shrinking Workforce: The Golden Generation’s Exit
One of the biggest trends reshaping the industry is the retirement of its “golden generation.” These are experienced professionals with decades of expertise, many of whom are now stepping away from the workforce. As René Eijsvogels reflected, “I sometimes ask myself how many others with my knowledge, experience, and commercial implementation are still working in our market.”
This demographic shift has created a noticeable skills gap. As Ahmed Mazhar Bashir suggested, companies should plan better for this transition by:
- Dedicating senior professionals’ final years to training and mentoring the younger generation.
- Retaining retirees as consultants to continue sharing their expertise.
- Outsourcing professional consultants to provide regular training and support.
These strategies not only mitigate the loss of institutional knowledge but also ensure a steady influx of skilled professionals to meet the industry’s demands. In fact, this very topic is something that was addressed in a recent STLE Whitepaper, and has been a topic of numerous industry forums.
This is not unique to the lubricants industry – many other trades are also seeing the “baby boomers” retire out of the workforce with insufficient new hires able to fill the gap. But the lubricants industry suffers acutely from this because the old pipeline of talent used to rely on the majors (Mobil, Shell, Castrol etc) spitting out large numbers of trained graduates that then filtered through the ecosystem of independent companies.
Why This Is a Career Win
With fewer people entering the industry and the workforce shrinking faster than the overall volume, the opportunity per person is increasing. This means that those who commit to the lubrication industry will find themselves in high demand, with the chance to make a significant impact.
As David Piangerelli eloquently put it, “Machines of all types throughout a huge variety of industries continue to provide challenges and solutions to those dedicated to assisting others in maximizing asset life. A career in lubrication is unique, engaging, and dynamic.”
This sentiment is echoed by Daniel Kurth, who emphasized that the lubricant industry is about more than just oil. He highlighted its focus on sustainability, increased component lifetimes, and total cost of ownership—all of which make it an exciting and rewarding field.
Looking Ahead: Building the Next Generation of Lubrication Experts
To capitalize on these opportunities, the industry must prioritize attracting and developing new talent. This involves not only filling the skills gap left by retiring professionals but also inspiring the next generation to see the value and potential of a career in lubrication.
Organizations can play a crucial role by:
- Promoting the importance of lubrication in industrial processes and sustainability efforts.
- Offering mentorship programs to pass down knowledge.
- Investing in training and professional development for new and existing employees.
Conclusion
The lubrication industry may be evolving, but it remains a vital and dynamic field with endless opportunities for those willing to embrace change. As the workforce contracts, the need for skilled, passionate professionals will only grow. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or just starting out, now is the time to carve your niche in this essential industry.
In the words of Richard Clemmey, “Are new people coming through? Or will I have a consultancy future into old age?” For many, the answer lies in embracing the exciting, transformative opportunities ahead.