Chris Schow

Chris Schow earned a Bachelor of Science in Forestry from the University of Montana and spent several years working on Hotshot and Helitack crews as a Smokejumper in Idaho and Wyoming. While working as a jumper in McCall, he returned to Boise State University and obtained his teaching credentials in secondary science. He taught high school biology, physics, and Natural Resources in Sandpoint while continuing to fight fires in the summers. A broken leg ended his smokejumping career in Colorado and he transitioned to a fire management career with the U.S. Forest Service. Working in Wyoming, Vermont, and California, he managed fire programs in many ecosystems and fuel types. After retiring as the Regional Deputy Director for Fire and Aviation Management in California, he continues to apply that experience in a variety of venues to bring innovative solutions to complex issues surrounding fire in the west. Chris and his wife live in Gardnerville, Nevada where they enjoy skiing, biking, and hiking in the Sierras and beyond.