Dear NWSA Members,
I am honored to step into the role of President of the National Wildfire Suppression Association, and I want to begin by offering my sincere thanks to Claren Nilsson for her dedicated service as President. Claren’s leadership, professionalism, and steady guidance strengthened this association during a period of significant operational and policy complexity. On behalf of the entire membership, thank you, Claren, for your time, commitment, and lasting contributions to NWSA.
As we look ahead to the coming season, it is clear that our industry is once again entering a period of potentially significant change. Ongoing discussions at the federal level, including whether Congress may pursue consolidation of the United States Forest Service into the Department of the Interior raise important questions about agency structure, contracting authority, and program oversight. While the scope, timing, and outcome of these discussions remain uncertain, their implications for our workforce, contracts, and response capability are significant.
During times like these, NWSA’s role is clear. We will remain engaged, informed, and proactive advocating for a strong, professional private wildfire suppression industry that is recognized as a critical and trusted partner in the national fire response system. We will continue to work constructively with agency leadership, policymakers, and allied organizations to help ensure that any changes strengthen not weaken the effectiveness, safety, and readiness of the private wildland fire community.
This association exists to represent your interests, your people, and the essential services you provide on the fireline. As President, my commitment is to maintain transparent communication, thoughtful advocacy, and steady leadership as we navigate what lies ahead together. I look forward to working closely with the Board and each of you to ensure NWSA remains a strong, credible, and unified voice for our industry.
Your continued engagement, professionalism, and dedication to the Professional Private Wildland Fire Service is more important than ever. I am proud to serve you and confident in our collective ability to adapt, lead, and succeed in the year ahead.
Respectfully,
Jess Wills
President
National Wildfire Suppression Association
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