MAHLE Aftermarket will continue as a parts sponsor for the eighth consecutive year for the School of Automotive Machinists & Technology (SAM Tech). The school was created to support the next generation of performance engine builders.

MAHLE will supply the renowned vocational school with bearings throughout the year, which will be used during engine builds, testing, and competition, for both domestic and import applications.

In addition, students at SAM Tech will have the opportunity to test MAHLE’s new performance coated bearings in the school’s race engines and will use MAHLE bearings for all competition, according to the company. SAM Tech’s race engine team will use Clevite bearings this year in the Amsoil Engine Master’s Challenge, a competition SAM Tech won in 2016.

“In addition to the supply of bearings, we feel very fortunate to have access to MAHLE’S technical expertise which gives our students a definite edge. The students, especially our race team, have gained immeasurably from the partnership,” said Brian Massingill, vice president of operations for SAM Tech.

New to the sponsorship this year will be the addition of MAHLE Performance bearings, designed specifically for imports and sport compact vehicles.

“We are very excited to see what they will accomplish in their career and look forward to what they may discover as they put our bearings to the test. These students are the race engine builders of tomorrow and we are very pleased to support them with the parts they need to compete at the highest level of competition,” said Jon Douglas, president of MAHLE Aftermarket Inc.

SAM Tech offers programs in engine block machining, cylinder head machining, CNC machining, EFI tuning, and associate degree classes. The school is known for providing experienced technicians and crewmen to work with the best in the performance racing industry from NASCAR to IndyCar, according to officials. Notable graduates include Kyle Davis, project engineer, Earnhardt-Childress Racing Engines and Chris Thomas, performance machinist and engine builder, Jon Kaase Racing Engines.