John Foliot is an internationally recognized expert in digital accessibility and web standards with over 25 years of professional experience. Known for his strategic vision and technical expertise, John has dedicated his career to fostering inclusive digital environments that prioritize usability and accessibility for all. Through his leadership and contributions to global standards at the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), John has played a pivotal role in shaping the future of digital accessibility.

Currently operating as an independent consultant, John specializes in enterprise-level strategies for achieving digital accessibility compliance and conformance. He provides short-, medium-, and long-term consulting services to clients worldwide, offering practical solutions that align with Web Content Accessibility Guidelines (WCAG), WAI-ARIA, and other international standards. As a registered consultant with ProSapient and AlphaSights, John is a trusted advisor to organizations seeking to enhance their accessibility initiatives.

John’s commitment to accessibility is exemplified through his longstanding association with the W3C, where he has been an active contributor for over 15 years. He has worked on the development of WCAG 2.1, 2.2, and the upcoming WCAG 3.0, while also co-authoring the Media Accessibility User Requirements (MAUR) and contributing to various emerging specifications. His efforts reflect a deep understanding of both the technical and human aspects of accessibility, ensuring that standards are not only robust but also practical for real-world application.

Before embarking on his consulting journey, John held impactful roles at organizations such as Stanford University, JPMorgan Chase, and Deque Systems, Inc. At Stanford, he established and led the Stanford Online Accessibility Program, where he worked closely with senior stakeholders to achieve campus-wide digital accessibility compliance. At JPMorgan Chase, John developed and implemented a comprehensive accessibility training initiative, empowering development teams with the knowledge and tools needed to create inclusive digital experiences.

John is also a passionate educator and speaker. He has delivered presentations at leading conferences such as CSUN, Paris Web, South by Southwest (SXSW), and Accessing Higher Ground. With over two decades of instructional experience, he excels at bridging the gap between technical accessibility requirements and practical implementation, making him a sought-after trainer and mentor in the field.

A strong advocate for community-driven learning, John co-founded Open Web Camp, a free annual conference for web developers with a focus on accessibility. This initiative not only provided a platform for knowledge-sharing but also cultivated a global community of professionals committed to making the web more inclusive.

John’s technical expertise spans a broad range of tools and technologies, including HTML5, CSS, ePub, WAI-ARIA, usability testing, and more. His extensive endorsements on LinkedIn reflect his mastery of these skills, as well as his ability to lead teams and manage complex projects. Whether working with government agencies, Fortune 500 companies, or educational institutions, John’s solutions are always tailored to meet the unique needs of his clients.

Fluent in English and proficient in French, John has also worked internationally, contributing to projects in Japan, Portugal, and France. His global perspective, coupled with his deep expertise, enables him to navigate diverse cultural and organizational landscapes with ease. Based in Lanark, Ontario, John is available for remote engagements and thrives on helping organizations achieve their accessibility goals.

At his core, John Foliot is a visionary leader dedicated to empowering organizations with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in an increasingly digital world. His unwavering commitment to accessibility, coupled with his ability to drive meaningful change, positions him as a trusted partner for any organization looking to create a more inclusive digital future.

Character:
John Foliot is a dedicated advocate for inclusivity, driven by a passion for creating accessible and equitable digital environments. His integrity and commitment to empowering organizations reflect his visionary leadership and steadfast belief in the transformative power of accessibility.

Knowledge:
With over 25 years of expertise, John possesses a deep understanding of digital accessibility standards such as WCAG, WAI-ARIA, and international web standards. His extensive contributions to W3C and practical experience across industries underscore his role as a global authority in accessibility.

Strategic:
John excels at crafting scalable and sustainable strategies for digital accessibility, tailored to meet the unique needs of each organization. His ability to align accessibility goals with business objectives ensures meaningful and impactful outcomes.

Communication:
An accomplished speaker and educator, John bridges complex technical concepts with practical, actionable insights. His ability to engage diverse audiences fosters understanding and collaboration, inspiring teams to prioritize accessibility in their work.