The Wildland-Urban Interface (WUI) Mentorship Program connects fire department leaders with experienced wildland-fire subject-matter experts for hands-on guidance, peer learning, and operational support tailored to local wildfire risks.
Why Participate?
Learn From Experienced Wildfire Leaders
Receive practical, peer-to-peer guidance tailored to your department’s wildfire risks, operational needs, and local conditions.
Build Lasting Expertise and Connections
Develop relationships with experienced wildland-fire professionals who provide trusted guidance and continued support throughout and beyond the program.
Create a Roadmap for Action
Develop a Post-Exchange Action Plan with achievable next steps to strengthen wildfire preparedness, mitigation, and community resilience.
Who Participates
The program brings together:
- Fire departments in WUI areas with growing wildfire risk and limited wildland-fire experience.
- Wildland-fire subject-matter experts who provide mentorship, operational insight, and practical guidance.
What to Expect
Customized Site Visits
Participate in two to three site visits with subject-matter experts focused on your department’s local conditions, challenges, and priorities.
Regional Fire Department Exchange
Join a two-day, peer-learning exchange focused on practical wildfire preparedness and operations.
Hands-On Guidance
Explore topics such as evacuation planning, community education, vegetation management, WUI codes, and mitigation practices.
Post-Exchange Action Plan
Develop achievable next steps and a roadmap for strengthening local wildfire preparedness and resilience.
Continued Mentorship
Stay connected with mentors for guidance and troubleshooting as your department puts plans and programs into action.
When & How to Apply
Fire departments may apply during the program’s application period. Participants are selected based on factors including wildfire exposure, operational needs, and readiness to engage in the mentorship process. Visit the Wildfire Programs Hub for more information on how to participate and apply for the mentoring program.
Participant Commitment
Selected departments are expected to actively participate in mentorship activities, collaborate with subject-matter experts, and commit to advancing wildfire preparedness in their communities.
Following the exchange, departments should be prepared to implement their Post-Exchange Action Plan and continue building long-term wildfire capability.
