Sessional - Faculty (FIRE 2430)

DUTIES

The Department for Communication and Visual Arts is seeking a sessional instructor to teach FIRE 2430: Wildfire Media Relations in the Winter 2026 semester, to be delivered online synchronously.

In this course students examine an array of communication needs connected with circumstances of wildfires, recognizing the conditions of heightened concern. In doing so, students develop communication plans, which may rely upon traditional, digital, and multimedia platforms, as well as analytical and critical theories regarding the perceptions of risk. By exploring theories, principles and practices of risk, as well as case studies from fire management which may require timely and complex solutions, students will develop their abilities towards crisis communication that supports diverse individuals, organizations, governments, and communities enabling them to make effective risk/benefit decisions, managing fear and uncertainty, and responding to crisis.

QUALIFICATIONS

A bachelor’s degree in a relevant field, or an equivalent combination of education and extensive field experience. Candidates presenting field experience must possess a minimum of 15 years of operational emergency management experience, with a strong preference for wildfire operations. This must include direct incident experience, dedicated work in wildfire media relations, and active crisis communications. Demonstrated experience in teaching, instruction, or training delivery is required.