Building diversity and capability within the fire community through WTREX

Virginia Avery, a clinical social worker from Missoula, MT, visits with Brian, a young reporter just out of college - working on his first story for NPR through National Public Media. Make no mistake, Virginia is a dynamo, a military veteran, wildland fire fighter, and worked on a hot shot crew. She can speak your language when times get tough. Photos by Laura Vroman

There were nearly 50 people who came to WTREX training at the Nature Conservancy - most all were women who were learning the various positions within the fire community.

Organizer Lenya, and Communications Manager Annie, at the WTREX program held at the Nature Conservancy from April 22 through May 3. Photos by Laura Vroman

Cartographer Chris “Fern” Ferner creates maps for the firefighters to use when planning a burn. She explained that some of the maps needed to have different colors to help colorblind firefighters out in the field.