The wildfire within : firefighter perspectives on gender and leadership in wildland fire

Abstract

This project utilized a feminist appreciative approach to Action Research to facilitate a conversation about gender and leadership within the British Columbia Wildfire Service (BCWS). The research question was, “How might understanding gender and leadership support excellence in the BCWS?” This study found that amongst diverse perspectives on gender and leadership, ultimately gender discrimination is occurring within wildland fire culture in the BCWS. Participants suggested action steps based on supporting organizational and leadership learning through non-judgemental, safe spaces for dialogue. This provided an opportunity for the BCWS to transform the challenges associated with gender discrimination in the wildland fire profession through organizational learning.