Who is Joel?
Originally from Ontario, Joel headed west after university in search of mountain life — and like many who make the move, he never looked back. After more than a decade in North Vancouver, Joel and his wife relocated to Squamish, drawn by the world-class mountain biking, fantastic skiing, and the welcoming small-town feel they wanted for raising their family.
Joel has a background in mechanical engineering and now works as a product manager for a Vancouver-based company specializing in remote monitoring technology. When he’s not logging kilometres on skis, you’ll find him trail running, honing his woodworking skills, or keeping up with his two energetic young daughters.
With his girls involved in several sports — cross-country skiing being the clear favourite — Joel quickly recognized the important role volunteers play in making club programs possible. So when fellow Board members approached him about stepping into the Treasurer role, the timing felt right. Since joining the Board, Joel has become a valued member of the team.
For Joel, one of the most rewarding parts of volunteering has been building connections within the Nordic community.
“Getting to know more of the Nordics community in the Sea to Sky has been great. I’ve really enjoyed meeting the parents and kids involved, and seeing their love for skiing. It’s pretty infectious — it motivates you to help out with the club but also to get out on the trails yourself!”
When reflecting on his first season on the Board, Joel points to the incredible season finale as a clear highlight. From a fun-filled club games day on the second-last weekend to the excitement of the Coast Cup #4 race on the final weekend, it was a memorable way to wrap up winter. Seeing everyone out on course — from our youngest Bunnies to our experienced coaches — captured the true spirit of the club and highlighted the vital role volunteers and participants play in making these events happen.
We were curious to learn more about Joel’s ‘ski vibe’ so we asked him the following:
If you could ski anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Norway. We had friends live there and it sounds incredible.
Skate or Classic?
Skate. I’m still trying to get decent at skate technique!
Can you tell us about how you started skiing and what you love most about the sport?
I did a bit of classic skiing as a kid with my family but then took a long break from the sport. When we moved to Squamish six years ago my wife and I both picked up skate skiing as a way to get out of the rain and into the snow. I love the challenge of it, the quiet of being up in Norwegian Woods with no one around, and the great community around the sport.
What’s your favourite post-ski snack?
Chicken fingers and Pemberton fries at the lodge on family weekend ski days. Beer and chips in the warming hut at the dog Loop after a good headlamp lit night ski.
We’re grateful to have Joel on the Board and look forward to many more seasons of his enthusiasm, dedication, and trail miles ahead. If you see him out skiing, be sure to say hello!