UK MBA Students Partner with Bullard, Valvoline Global Operations on Real-World Market Challenges
LEXINGTON, Ky. — Two OneUK partners joined an ongoing University of Kentucky tradition this spring, bringing live business challenges into Gatton College of Business and Economics' Full-Time MBA program. Bullard and Valvoline Global Operations each sponsored a project through their Problem Solving Lab, the program's experiential learning practicum that has long paired MBA candidates with regional employers to solve real-world business problems.
The involvement of both companies reflects the broader ambition of OneUK, a strategic collaboration program that connects UK's academic, research and community resources with leading businesses to drive economic development across the Commonwealth. Rather than one-off sponsorships or guest lectures, the program builds long-term, holistic partnerships between UK and companies seeking deeper engagement with the institution's talent pipeline, research capabilities and broader academic ecosystem. For students, that means working on real problems with real stakes.
Bullard, the Cynthiana-based safety equipment manufacturer, tasked MBA students with examining the competitive landscape for one of its core product lines, analyzing market dynamics, evolving customer preferences and the potential impact of recent regulatory changes on the company's position in the industry. Students delivered a competitive assessment and strategic recommendations designed to help Bullard protect and strengthen its market leadership over the next three to five years.
“Partnering with the University of Kentucky MBA students through their Problem Solving Lab gave Bullard access to fresh perspectives, strong analytical thinking and practical strategic recommendations on a real business challenge,” said Carlos Lopez, director of product strategy and development at Bullard. “The students quickly understood the complexity of our market, including customer expectations, competitive dynamics and the impact of evolving standards. Their work provided valuable insights that will help us continue strengthening Bullard’s position as a trusted leader in firefighter safety.”
Valvoline Global Operations, headquartered in Lexington, brought a different kind of challenge, asking students to evaluate an opportunity to expand one of its product lines into an underpenetrated market segment. The team conducted consumer research, a competitive review and an internal capabilities assessment before delivering a go-to-market strategy and retail sell-in story for the company's consideration.
“The University of Kentucky MBA team brought a high level of curiosity and professionalism to an opportunity that matters to our business,” said Chalie Politi, associate brand manager of NA partnerships and sponsorships at Valvoline Global Operations. “Their consistent ability to turn research, market context, and internal considerations into a clear go-to-market approach stood out. The team provided a useful framework as we continue evaluating ways to reach new consumers and create value for our retail partners.
Both projects are part of the Full-Time MBA program’s Problem Solving Lab, which runs each fall and spring semester. In the fall, candidates are exposed to problem-solving methodologies through case studies with regional employers. In the spring, they are paired with those employers based on career interests, taking ownership of projects and delivering solutions for their sponsors. The practicum is designed to sharpen strategic problem-solving, teaming and communication skills through the kind of ambiguous, high-pressure work students will encounter in their careers.
“We are very grateful for the continued partnership of Bullard, Valvoline Global Operations and all of our industry partners,” said Karl Gustafson, academic director of MBA programs at Gatton College of Business and Economics. “Through meaningful projects, executive exposure and mentorship, our partners provide the opportunity for our candidates to deliver real business value while strengthening their skills and confidence needed to make a positive impact as they move forward in their careers.”