Bonus Content for STLE Members
20 Minutes With Paul Cigala
By Nicole Gleeson, Editorial Coordinator | TLT 20 Minutes January 2026
This senior CVL applications engineer at ExxonMobil discusses used oil analysis and solving customers’ problems.
Editor’s Note
We are deeply saddened to share that Paul Cigala passed away shortly after completing work on this interview. Paul was a respected voice in the community, known not only for his technical expertise, but for his generosity, curiosity, and passion for advancing the field. We have chosen to publish this piece as a tribute to his contributions and to honor the time, care, and insight he devoted to this work.
Paul Cigala - The Quick File
Paul Cigala has been senior CVL (Center for Values in Leadership) applications engineer at ExxonMobil for 10 years and has spent 36 years total at ExxonMobil. He manages large truck fleets in the western half of the U.S., with a focus on lubrication, used oil analysis and failure analysis. He is an active member of the American Trucking Association’s Technology & Maintenance Council, serving on the S3 Study Group (Engine & Motor).
Paul Cigala
TLT: How long have you worked in a lubrication-related field, and how did you decide to pursue a career in the lubricants industry?
Cigala: I have been in the industry for 36 years and decided to pursue a career in the lubricants industry once I graduated trade school. I worked as a diesel tech for five years before an opportunity came up to apply for a global R&D role.
TLT: What has been your most rewarding accomplishment throughout your career in the lubricants industry?
Cigala: I find working with my customers and helping them solve problems to be the most rewarding part of my job. I like to find out what they are trying to accomplish and then use things in my tool bag to accomplish their goals.
TLT: What is the No. 1 piece of advice you would give to a person who might be interested in starting a career in the lubricants industry?
Cigala: Learn all you can on used oil analysis and formulations. These are the skills I have used the most in my 36 years in the industry.
TLT: Throughout the different segments within your career, which one has been the most interesting, challenging and/or rewarding?
Cigala: My current role as senior CVL applications engineer at ExxonMobil has been the most interesting, challenging and rewarding. Helping people is what I find the most rewarding. My volunteer work with American Trucking Association’s Technology & Maintenance Council also fits into this category.
TLT: What are some of the most technical lubrication-based concepts or topics that you have encountered throughout your career?
Cigala: Sensors and on board used oil analysis are two of the most technical aspects I’ve encountered. Technology has increased, sharing sensor abilities. Once prices stabilize, I believe sensors will have an important place in the market.
TLT: What is the one thing you wish you would have learned earlier in your career?
Cigala: Used oil analysis. It is the basis for all the testing I do as a part of my day-to-day responsibilities, so building a strong foundation is important.