Joel Foster, of Ontario, is the recipient of the 2026 John Oates Memorial Award. The John Oates Memorial Award is about recognizing a volunteer’s significant contributions to the Skills movement in Canada. 

Foster is Coordinator of Architectural Technology & Design program at Fanshawe College in London, Ontario. He has been involved with Skills Canada Ontario since 2012 and Skills/Compétences Canada since 2013. Foster is currently the Chair of the Architectural Technology & Design Skill Area at the Skills Canada National Competition. 

Participation in his Skill Area at the provincial level and industry engagement have grown exponentially because of his efforts. Foster has also made many contributions outside of skills competitions to engage students in career exploration in the skilled trades and technologies.  

Through mentorship, innovation, and more than a decade of dedicated service, Joel has strengthened the Skills community and inspired youth and volunteers alike. He exemplifies the spirit of John Oates—selfless, inclusive, and deeply committed to advancing skills development in Canada. 

Congratulations, Joel, on this well-deserved award!