Systems and methods to operate an engine in a bowed rotor mitigation mode. An engine starting system includes a starter coupled to the engine and with a compressor. A conduit system communicates a portion of the compressed air from the compressor to the starter. A load control valve controls compressed air from the compressor to the starter and to other loads. A starter air valve controls compressed air through the conduit system to the starter. At least one controller: receives a start signal from the engine; determines whether to initiate a bowed rotor mitigation of the engine; operates either the load control valve or the starter air valve to move to a predetermined static position; and operates the other of the load control valve or the starter air valve to achieve a target speed of the engine.