Chevron Products Company announced that senior staff engineer Shawn Whitacre has been selected as the new chairman of the ASTM Heavy-Duty Engine Oil Classification Panel.

Whitacre will help to lead development of the upcoming PC-11 heavy duty motor oil and provide guidance as it continues to evolve. He replaces the outgoing chairman, Chevron Consulting Scientist Jim McGeehan, who has led the panel since 1987.

“Shawn brings technical expertise from Chevron along with the perspective and expertise of working in fluids for an engine manufacturer at Cummins,” said Brian Stripling, General Manager of Brand, Technology and OEM, Chevron Lubricants. “His expertise will be key to generating the industry consensus that the industry must reach to continue moving forward.”

Whitacre has been involved with the ASTM HDEOCP since 1996 and has helped develop five categories dating back to API CH-4.

At Chevron, he is responsible for product formulation of the Delo Brand of engine oils and is the lead formulator responsible for development of Chevron’s PC-11 product line upgrade.

Chevron named Whitacre as the replacement for McGeehan when the longtime industry veteran retired in June 2015.

“While the ASTM develops categories for the North American market, these categories influence the global HDMO market,” said Whitacre. “Jim has enjoyed an admirable career and I am honored to assume his responsibilities at the ASTM and at Chevron.”