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Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Manager

UASM Incident Position Description

The Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Manager (UASM) is the conduit between an unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) module and incident management. The UASM provides supervision and coordination of a UAS module. The UASM supervises assigned crew members and reports to an Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Module Leader (UASL), Air Operations Branch Director (AOBD), Incident Commander (IC), or other assigned supervisor. The UASM works in the Air Operations functional area. 

All UAS missions shall be conducted in accordance with the NWCG Standards for Fire Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations, PMS 515, and applicable federal/state policies (e.g., Federal Aviation Administration [FAA], Department of Interior [DOI], United States Forest Service [USFS]).

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Leadership Level 2, New Leader (Convey Intent)

  • For additional information review Level 2 description, expected behaviors and knowledge, suggested development goals, and self-study opportunities.

Prepare and Mobilize

  • Ensure individual readiness.
  • Gather critical information pertinent to the assignment.
  • Travel to and check in at the assignment.
  • Check in with the incident supervisor and/or dispatch when arriving at the incident.

Build the Team

  • Assemble and validate readiness of the crew, equipment, vehicles, and aircraft.
  • Establish a common operating picture.
  • Brief assigned personnel.

Supervise and Direct Work Assignments

  • Supervise and manage the UAS resources.
  • Model leadership values and principles.

Perform Unmanned Aircraft Systems, Manager – Specific Duties

  • Develop and implement the mission based on operational and data objectives.
  • Ensure the appropriate airspace authorizations are in place.
  • Coordinate safe travel to and from the area of operations.
  • Perform a site survey and determine an appropriate Launch and Recovery Zone (LRZ).
  • Organize the UAS resources for operational missions.
  • Provide module oversight.

Communicate and Coordinate

  • Establish communications and exchange necessary briefings/information.
  • Communicate using plain language and Incident Command System (ICS) terminology.
  • Ensure clear understanding of expectations and timely communication within the chain of command.
  • Conduct and/or participate in After Action Reviews (AARs).

Manage Risk

  • Apply the Risk Management Process and Safety Management System (SMS).  
  • Ensure Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES) are established and known to all personnel before they are needed.
  • Plan for and respond to medical emergencies.
  • Plan for and respond to aviation mishaps. 

Document

  • Complete, authorize, ensure timeliness of, and route required forms and documents.

Demobilize

  • Prepare for and implement demobilization.

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WFSTAR 2026 Core Components Module Package and 2025 Fire Year in Review Now Available

Date:  March 23, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Joe Schindel

The 2026 Core Components Module Package for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) and the 2025 Fire Year in Review are now available on the NWCG website. The 2026 Core Components Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

References:

2026 Core Components Module Package

2025 Fire Year in Review Module

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Date:  March 17, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Fire Behavior Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce that the new S-490, Advanced Fire Behavior Calculations (Blended), 2026 course is now available.

This training includes performance-based activities that allow students to apply the knowledge and concepts required for the Fire Behavior Analyst (FBAN), Long Term Fire Analyst (LTAN), and Prescribed Fire Burn Boss Type 1 (RXB1) positions. It supports individuals working towards these incident qualifications.

This blended course begins with a self-paced online training (OLT) in the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP), followed by an in-person instructor-led training (ILT).

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Date:  March 13, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Leadership Committee

The NWCG Leadership Committee is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Paul Gleason "Lead By Example" awards. Award categories include Initiative and Innovation, Mentoring and Teamwork, Motivation and Vision, as well as a Lifetime Achievement Award.

Congratulations to the awardees:

  • Justin Baxter, National Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) Operations Specialist, with the U.S. Forest Service — Initiative and Innovation
  • Kelly Woods, Director of the Wildland Firefighting Lessons Learned Center — Mentoring and Teamwork
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References:

Paul Gleason Lead By Example Award

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NEW! S-231, Engine Boss Course Available Now

Date:  March 6, 2026
Questions? 
Please contact: Incident Operations Subcommittee

NWCG is pleased to announce the new S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) course is now available on the Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Developed through the Incident Performance and Training Modernization (IPTM) effort, this training supports individuals working towards Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) incident qualifications. 

This is a performance-based instructor-led training (ILT) that focuses on the application of ENGB responsibilities during wildland fire operations, emphasizing readiness, information gathering, risk management, engine tactics, and Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) operations. Trainees apply these skills through scenario-based group work and an optional field day that reinforces hands-on engine operation tasks. 

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S-231, Engine Boss (Single Resource) (Instructor-led)

NWCG Engine Boss, Single Resource (ENGB) Position Page

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