Can you imagine earning real wildfire certifications at just 17 years old and training to fight fires before you even graduate high school? Now picture yourself learning chainsaw operations, emergency response, leadership, and teamwork while working outdoors in forests and mountain landscapes instead of sitting behind a desk all day. What if your future career challenged you physically and mentally, gave you opportunities to travel and work in incredible places, and allowed you to protect communities and natural landscapes when they need help the most?
Kent Maxwell, founder of Colorado Firecamp, shares how a volunteer firefighter experience at age 20 completely changed the direction of his life and eventually led him to create a nationally recognized wildland firefighter training program. Kent explains how wildfire careers go far beyond simply fighting flames — from prescribed burns and forest restoration to chainsaw operations, conservation corps projects, emergency response, and wildfire mitigation that helps protect homes before fires even begin. He also gives a behind-the-scenes look at the technology, physics, communication, teamwork, and leadership involved in wildfire management, while explaining how students as young as 17 can begin earning certifications and exploring career pathways in the field.
Kent also highlights the adventure, travel, and life experiences that come with working in wildland fire and forestry. Through partnerships with conservation corps, AmeriCorps crews, colleges, and fire agencies, students gain opportunities to work outdoors in forests and mountain landscapes while learning hard skills like chainsaw safety and fire behavior, along with equally important “soft skills” like communication, belonging, teamwork, and leadership. Kent emphasizes that this career path is about more than just physical strength — it’s about problem-solving, adapting under pressure, supporting your crew, and finding purpose through service. Whether you’re interested in firefighting, forestry, conservation, mechanics, outdoor leadership, or simply want a career that feels meaningful and adventurous, this presentation offers an exciting look into a field that challenges you, builds confidence, and creates unforgettable experiences.