Our Team

President

Former Supervisory Forestry Technician | Assistant Hotshot Superintendent

Luke Mayfield is a seasoned veteran in the wildland fire domain, boasting over two decades of unrivaled expertise in fire management, emergency response, conservation, and advocacy initiatives. Fueled by a deep-seated commitment to the welfare of wildland firefighters, natural resources, and the communities that depend on them, Luke has been a persistent force for good. Currently, he serves as Head of Operations for BurnBot, having previously spent 6 years as the Fire Program Manager at Mystery Ranch Backpacks while also presiding over the Grassroots Wildland Firefighters organization. With an unyielding focus on optimizing comfort for wildland firefighters amidst the toughest conditions, Luke is a champion for their wellbeing. He continually strives for comprehensive strategies that prioritize the frontline fighters, safeguard communities, and preserve the rich heritage and advantages of public lands. His vision is one of holistic solutions, where every stakeholder benefits, and no one is left behind.

Vice President

Forest Fire Chief, USFS (retired)
Emergency Management Consultant

Riva Duncan retired from the US Forest Service in 2020 after over 32 years in wildland fire. Her experience included working on engines, crews, and helitack before moving into fuels management, operations, and forest fire chief positions. Since retirement Riva has worked on the Board of Grassroots Wildland Firefighters and as an emergency management consultant for the USFS International Program. After living and working in seven different states across the US, Riva settled in Asheville, NC in 2022.

Executive Director

Susie Douglas brings 9 years of wildland firefighting experience as a rappeller, hotshot, and crew member, combined with strategic business leadership skills, to her role as part-time Executive Director. Her perspective is strengthened by a BS in Fire Ecology & Management and 7 years of logistical expertise managing fuel operations across 3 US Antarctic Research Stations, where she mastered complex systems under extremely remote conditions. As a proven business development strategist, Susie has guided numerous organizations from inception to implementation while also serving in leadership roles with the US Hotshots Association and Wildfire Industry Collective, where she champions wildland firefighter voices across multiple organizations. When not advocating for firefighters, she's riding a mountain bike with her furry canine companion in tow. 

Executive Secretary

Forest Fire Chief, USFS
Deputy Regional Fire Director (Retired)
Author, Public Speaker, Podcast Host

Bobbie Scopa is a retired firefighter with 45 years experience having worked for 3 fire departments, 2 federal fire agencies and 1 state fire agency. She was a qualified type 1 operations section chief. She is a published author, podcast host and keynote speaker. 

Treasurer

Jami is a seasoned financial executive with over two decades of experience in accounting, financial operations, and leadership across public, private, and nonprofit sectors.She brings a strong track record of operational improvements, system implementations, and cross-functional leadership. Jami has previously held senior finance roles in manufacturing, healthcare, and biotech industries, consistently driving efficiency, compliance, and financial clarity. Credentials: Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in Oregon and Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA), with a B.S. in Accounting from the University of Idaho.