Kelly Foster is a co-founder of Kamanu Composites. His primary role is to lead composite laminations, but is also quick to provide guidance in all aspects of the business. Kelly grew up in Lihu'e on Kaua'i. In 1999 he learned to paddle for Kaiola Canoe Club in Niumalu. After graduating from Kaua'i High School in 2003 he turned down a volleyball scholarship at a college in California to attend HCC and pursue a degree in Fire Science while learning the basics of fiberglass lamination at the shop of one of Hawai'i's most prominent outrigger canoe builders. In 2005 he entered HCC's small vessel fabrication program, and in 2007 he graduated with a degree in small vessel fabrication and as a Certified Composites Technician. Throughout his four years on O'ahu he paddled for Hui Lanakila Canoe Club and slowly worked his way up to become one of O'ahu's top OC-1 paddlers. In 2007, Kelly placed 7th in the Moloka'i Solo and was a member of Team Hawai'i for the prestigious Hawaiki Nui in Tahiti.