Christopher Hanson

As the Workforce Development Specialist for the Kansas Forest Service, Christopher E. Hanson he serves as the agency’s wildland fire training and qualifications specialist, helping strengthen and expand firefighter development across Kansas. In this role, he coordinates and delivers wildland fire training in partnership with state and federal agencies, oversees the Incident Qualification System (IQS), and supports the progression of personnel from entry-level training through advanced qualification pathways. His work is focused on building clear, practical training pathways that prepare firefighters for operational success, support long-term career growth, and strengthen the overall readiness of the state’s wildland fire workforce.

His commitment to leadership and professional development has led him through a broad range of roles, from serving as a handcrew supervisor with the National Park Service to working as a division supervisor and incident commander on national fire assignments. As well with coordinating the development and establishment of the Kansas State Fire Suppression Module in 2021, where he continues to serve as Module Leader.

Christopher holds several National Wildland Coordinating Group qualifications, including Division Supervisor, Prescribed Burn Boss Type 2, Fireline Resource Advisor, Incident Commander Type 4, and Faller 1. Among them, the qualification he values most is Crew Boss. As he explains, “It places me directly on the fireline with my people, where leadership is demonstrated through action. Myself and fellow overhead are able to mentor firefighters in real time, reinforce sound decision-making, model professionalism under pressure, and help build the confidence, competence, and character essential to the next generation of fireline leaders."