Calvin King

Born and raised in Fort McMurray, Calvin King has always believed that the strength of a community is built by those who grow up in it, and give back to it. At 39, he has become a leader both in the workplace and on the ice, carrying forward the lessons, relationships, and values that shaped him as a young athlete in the very same arenas he now coaches in.

A graduate of Westwood High School, Calvin built his professional career close to home. Today, he serves as Team Lead, Facilities, at Suncor, an employer he credits with supporting work-life balance and encouraging community involvement. “Being able to eliminate obstacles for others, and being able to work for a company that provides opportunities to give back, that’s what I enjoy most,” he says. He brings a leadership style rooted in service, teamwork, and humility to both the people he supervises and the athletes he mentors.

Coaching is where Calvin’s passion and impact truly shine. Since 2011, he has volunteered with the Fort McMurray Minor Hockey Association, coaching across multiple age groups and spending the last eight years in the elite Junior Oil Barons program. For him, stepping into the rink is never a chore; it’s a calling. “I still wake up looking forward to getting to the rink, getting out with the players, and seeing them grow right in front of your eyes,” he says. “Knowing you were part of that growth is a great feeling.”

That motivation is personal. Calvin grew up playing minor hockey in Fort McMurray and still sees some of the coaches and mentors who influenced his youth involved in the community today. Their example inspires him to pay it forward and ensure the next generation has the same opportunities to grow, compete, and feel supported. His motto, ‘Focus on what’s in front of you,’ reflects the mindset he tries to instill in his players: stay present, work hard, and act with intention.

Behind Calvin’s contributions is a strong support system anchored by his wife, Charlene, and their three children. “My family has been instrumental and the justification for why I do it,” he says. Their shared values of dedication, sacrifice, and follow-through guide both his volunteer commitments and the way they raise their children. With one child recently graduating high school and two more working toward that milestone, supporting the next generation isn’t just something he does in the rink; it’s something he lives at home.

Professionally, Calvin feels fortunate to continue growing as a leader at Suncor, where he’s built a career rooted in mentorship and problem-solving. Interestingly, his coaching and career worlds often overlap in the most meaningful way. “A lot of the crew I work with call me coach,” he says with a laugh. “It’s a sense of pride, being able to impact others in a positive way.” Whether at the rink or at work, he sees leadership as an opportunity to shape culture and bring out the best in people.

Calvin has witnessed Fort McMurray transform over time, weathering fires, floods, economic shifts, and a global pandemic. But what stands out most to him is the perseverance of its residents. “The ability of the community to overcome so many challenges is a testament to the great people here,” he says. He believes involving residents in long-term decision-making will be key to tackling local issues like business sustainability, classroom crowding, and access to recreation spaces. While he acknowledges that solutions take time, he is proud to see more people choosing to make Fort McMurray their permanent home.

Calvin is committed to being part of the region’s future: raising his family here, supporting youth development, and continuing to lead by example. “I feel I’m in a position to be a positive contributor to the region’s growth,” he says. “Being from here and raising a family here is something I don’t take for granted.”

Above all, he remains humble and grateful. “I’m truly grateful that someone took the time to nominate me,” he says. “I’m blessed to have a support network that is always positive and always supportive.”

From the ice to industry, Calvin King represents what it means to grow where you’re planted and to make sure others can do the same.