The Secret to Your Success? It Begins Here

Details

The Valero Ardmore Refinery has gone through numerous upgrades since its purchase by Valero in 2001. Originally constructed in 1913, the refinery has been continuously modernized over the years with the objective of processing heavier, sour crudes while maintaining a high product yield establishing the refinery as a leader in the production of clean-burning fuels, especially in the Oklahoma region. Employing approximately 290 people, the refinery produces a wide range of petroleum products including gasoline, kerosene, sulfur, diesel, liquified petroleum gas (LPG), propylene, and butane. In addition to production and processing, the refinery also has more than 2.4 million barrels of product storage.

The Refinery’s Commitment to Its City

Throughout its history, the Valero Ardmore Refinery has been an active member of the Ardmore community. The Valero Ardmore Refinery has gone through numerous upgrades since its purchase by Valero in 2001. The refinery has been continuously modernized over the years with the objective of processing light sweet to heavier, sour crudes while maintaining a high product yield, establishing the refinery as a leader in the production of clean-burning fuels, especially in the Oklahoma region.

Valero Ardmore Refinery has also made giving back a hallmark of its operations in the community. In 2023, Ardmore hosted the 10th Annual Valero United Way BBQ Showdown and raised $375,000. An estimated 2,300 BBQ enthusiasts attended the two-day event. In total, this event has raised $1.5 million for the United Way of South Central Oklahoma. Valero’s Ardmore Refinery has made community investment a hallmark of its local presence. 

What began as a small internal BBQ fundraiser for employees and contractors has grown into the annual United Way BBQ Showdown—now one of southern Oklahoma’s premier charitable events. 

In its 12th year, the 2025 BBQ Showdown raised more than $500,000, supporting programs that benefit families across the Ardmore area. Through this event and ongoing volunteer and philanthropic efforts, Valero continues to demonstrate its commitment to Ardmore as both a major employer and a dedicated community partner.