Titans of Tribology: Gary Wood, CLS from HF Sinclair

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In this episode of Perfecting Motion, we spotlight a true Titan of Tribology—Gary Wood, the northeast district sales manager at HF Sinclair and longtime CLS-certified member since 1986. Hosted by STLE President Kevin Delaney of Vanderbilt Chemicals, LLC, this conversation dives deep into Gary’s distinguished career, leadership within the CLS committee, and decades of contributions to the field of tribology.   Listeners will also  gain insight into the mentors who shaped Gary’s journey, his greatest professional accomplishments, and the evolving challenges he has faced in the lubrication and tribology sectors. He also shares his forward-looking perspective on the future of the field and offers valuable advice for newcomers. This episode is a must-listen for aspiring tribologists and seasoned professionals alike, highlighting the impactful role of STLE in shaping careers and advancing the science of tribology.

Our Titan of Tribology: 

Gary Wood, District Manager at Petro-Canada Lubricants / HF Sinclair, I manage the sales and distribution of Petro-Canada Lubricants in the Northeast region, working with a network of distributors and customers to deliver high-quality products and services. I have been in this role since Aug 2022, and I bring over 30 years of experience and expertise in the lubrication industry, as well as a certification as a Lubrication Specialist from the Society of Tribologists and Lubrication Engineers (STLE).

Our Host:

Kevin Delaney, global sales director for the Petroleum Group at Vanderbilt Chemicals, LLC, in Norwalk, Conn., and STLE’s current 2025-2026 president.  Delaney graduated with a bachelor of science degree in chemistry from Penn State University in 1979. He has worked in the lubricants industry for more than 40 years. The first 20 years of his career were spent in the laboratory synthesizing additives, formulating packages, developing metalworking fluids and providing technical service for polyalkylene glycols and biocides. Since then, he’s worked in technical sales and sales management with extensive experience in Asia Pacific.  Delaney has been an STLE member since 1983. He held every office in the previous STLE Connecticut Section at least once and organized several of their education days. He was on the STLE Board of Directors from 2005 to 2009. He also was vice chair of the Metalworking Technical Committee in 2000.

For more information on STLE, please visit https://www.stle.org/ If you have an idea for our podcast, or interested in being a guest, please Email STLE Director of Professional Development Robert Morowczynski at [e-mail] . Also, we love your feedback, please take a minute to provide us with your thoughts at Perfecting Motion Podcast Feedback or Email us at [e-mail].