ETC co-founder and CEO Fred Foster passed away on February 8, 2019 at the age of 61. Foster was diagnosed with cancer in 2015 and fought a courageous battle lasting years longer than originally projected. Foster leaves behind a legacy of a company that has impacted the theatrical world in countless ways. He is survived by his wife Susan, and two children, Kate and James, who all currently work at ETC.
While studying at the University of Wisconsin-Madison in the 1970’s under the mentorship of lighting-design luminary Gilbert Hemsley, Jr., Fred Foster, his brother Bill Foster, Gary Bewick and James Bradley developed a groundbreaking lighting-control console for theater, Mega Cue, in Foster’s apartment.
Fred Foster was a visionary, an innovator, a role model, and a true leader to many. His contributions to the entertainment technology industry are countless and range from product innovations to student mentorship programs. He’s been recognized repeatedly for his philanthropy from numerous organizations.
UW-Madison’s Department of Theatre and Drama extends its deepest sympathies to Fred Foster’s family and colleagues at ETC.
For more information, visit https://www.etcconnect.com/Fred-Foster/?LangType=1033
Fred Foster was featured in a UW article from last May https://news.wisc.edu/still-on-stage-after-40-years-wisconsin-firm-grows-beyond-theater-lighting/