My First Fire: A PIO Experience
Hi, I’m Jacob, a geographer by training, but currently serve as an Information Officer for the Fire & Aviation Program for BLM Nevada. In the fall of 2021, I went out on my first fire as a Public Information Officer (PIOf) Trainee. It was the McCash Fire in Northern California. This experience was by far the best professional experience of my career.
In my role as a PIO, I got to challenge myself everyday by engaging with the public, taking photos, creating social media posts, making videos, interviewing SMEs, answering questions, holding public meetings, working the trapline, and collaborating with other leaders from across the country (Firefighters, Photographers, GIS, Operations, Planning, Logistics, IT, Resource Advisors, Tribes, and other experts in their field) to inform the public and better tell the story. All in a matter of a couple weeks.
In addition to the work, I got to travel and see all kinds of wildlife/landscapes, enjoyed camping and catered meals, improved my problem-solving skills, and met lifelong friends.
I think as public land stewards this is a tremendous opportunity to participate in the active protection of our lands and the communities that support them.
