Welcome Michelle Friess, Flight Operations Coordinator at Bridger Aerospace, one of the leading companies in aerial wildfire suppression. Michelle schedules scooper pilots, coordinates operations across a growing national fleet, and helps ensure fire aircraft and crews are where they’re needed—fast.

🎯 Topics Covered:

-What it’s like managing aircraft and crews during fire season

-Why wildfires are now a year-round threat

-The growing role of super scoopers and aerial firefighting

-Bridger’s plans to expand its fleet (from 16+ aircraft and beyond)

-Challenges with pilot scheduling, maintenance, and federal contracts

-The emotional side of the job and the respect for ground crews

-Mentorship, women in fire aviation, and why wildfire feels like family

🌎 Michelle also shares how her path—from garbage site support in Oregon to wildfire aviation—proves that anyone with grit and purpose can have impact.