Skip to main content

About The Collective.

Who We Are.

What We Do.

Meet Our Team.

Executive Director

Jonathon Golden

Jonathon is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in wildland fire, emergency management, and conservation advocacy, spanning both public and private sectors.

As the founder and Executive Director of the Wildfire Industry Collective, a non-profit business league dedicated to supporting wildland firefighters and the industry as a whole, he is deeply committed to the welfare of wildland firefighters, natural resources, and the communities that rely on both. Leveraging his boots-on the-ground expertise, strategic communication skills, and understanding of the policy space, Jonathon consistently secures desired outcomes for his clients. His work focuses on advancing tangible international and domestic conservation objectives on behalf of NGOs, tech start-ups, and Fortune 500 companies, forging strong partnerships with state and federal government agencies, legislatures, community leaders, and other stakeholders.

Jonathon holds a master's degree in international studies from the University of Washington and graduated Summa Cum Laude from Oregon State University with a degree in political science.

Director of Operations

Luke Mayfield

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 helms the Fire Program 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.

Director of Development

Michelle Hart

Michelle Hart has been indirectly involved with wildfire for the last 8 years since she met and married her husband, Tim Hart. Tim was a career wildland firefighter who died from injuries sustained on a fire in New Mexico in 2021. Since that time Michelle has advocated for wildland firefighters at the federal legislative level, culminating in “Tim’s Act” being introduced in Congress in 2021 and again in 2023.

With a fierce commitment to bettering the conditions of firefighters, Michelle continues to speak about her experience and the issues facing wildland firefighters in front of legislators and federal agencies. She continues to push for a national conversation about the issues facing our federal wildland firefighters and works to improve their pay and wellbeing.

Michelle works in the natural resources industry and holds a Master’s Degree in Business from the University of Findlay and a Master’s of Financial Planning from the University of Alabama.

Join the Mission