The United Aerial Firefighting Association (UAFA) recently convened its Board of Directors in Denver for a strategic planning session to expand the association’s reach and enhance member value. As the organization enters its second year, the meeting focused on building upon past successes and charting a course for future growth.
Key topics of discussion included future expansion of membership categories better to serve the diverse needs of the aerial firefighting community, establishing a data analysis committee to harness the industry’s growing data resources, and enhancing communication efforts to inform members, government officials, and the public about the critical role of aerial firefighting. The Board also discussed topics for this year’s annual member meeting in Boise, November 13-14, 2024, and initiated planning for upcoming elections, as two Corporate Director terms are set to expire at the year’s end.
The board welcomed industry leaders to discuss cutting-edge practices and technological innovations to fulfill its commitment to representing the membership. Vince Welbaum, from the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC), provided valuable insights into the complexities of wildfire management at the state level. Welbaum’s experience in federal and state roles provided invaluable context for the industry.
Ben Lawrence, from the Colorado Center of Excellence for Advanced Technology Aerial Firefighting, demonstrated the Colorado Team Awareness Kit (COTAK). It provides map-based situational awareness to firefighters and other first responders when traditional Internet access is unavailable or unreliable. UAFA members operating in Colorado can contact them for access.
Merle Lyman, former Chief of the Department of Defense (DoD) Commercial Airlift Division, shared his federal contracting and logistics expertise. By drawing parallels between the challenges faced by the aerial firefighting industry and the DoD’s Commercial Airlift Fleet (CRAF) program, Lyman offered potential strategies for improving contracting processes within the aerial firefighting sector.
As the wildfire season intensifies, the UAFA remains dedicated to supporting its members and advocating for the aerial firefighting industry. The Denver meeting served as a critical platform for strategic planning and knowledge sharing, positioning the association to address the evolving needs of the industry effectively.
