DNBC has reported that Colombia will host a wildfire training program for women leaders in fire management from September 7 to 17, 2025.
The event, known as the Women in Fire Training Exchange (COL WTREX), will take place in the Kanalitojo Indigenous Reserve in Puerto Carreño, Vichada, located in the Colombian Orinoquia region.
The program is designed to build technical capacity among women working in wildfire mitigation, share traditional Indigenous knowledge, and support leadership development in fire-related roles.
According to DNBC, the 10-day exchange will include practical training in savanna fire ecosystems.
Participants will study techniques for prescribed burning and fuel reduction, and will also examine leadership topics including the Incident Command System and emergency coordination.
The program will also explore fire management practices from Indigenous communities such as the Sikuani and Sálivas, who have long used controlled fire as a conservation method.
DNBC stated that COL WTREX was inspired by Prescribed Fire Training Exchanges previously held in the United States and Europe.
The Colombian edition marks the first time the program will be hosted in South America.
Organisers expect the training to support cross-cultural dialogue between Indigenous groups, rural professionals, and international fire managers.
The event is open to individuals working in wildfire response, environmental resource management, and related fields, according to DNBC.
While open to all genders, the program will give selection priority to women applicants.
Applicants must have completed four basic fire courses (S-190, S-130, L-180, ICS-100) before attending.
Applications are due by June 6, 2025, and results will be announced on June 20.
Colombian participants affiliated with the National Disaster Risk Management System will have their expenses covered, and scholarships are available for international attendees, particularly from Amazonian nations.
Colombia will host the Women in Fire Training Exchange (COL WTREX) from September 7 to 17, 2025.
The event will be held in the Kanalitojo Indigenous Reserve in Puerto Carreño, Vichada.
DNBC reported that the program will focus on training and leadership development for women in wildfire management.
Participants will receive instruction in prescribed burns, adaptive strategies, and the Incident Command System.
The program will also feature knowledge sharing with Indigenous communities such as the Sikuani and Sálivas.
COL WTREX is based on the TREX model previously held in the United States and Europe.
The event is open to individuals from government, Indigenous organizations, NGOs, and the private sector.
Applications are open through June 6, 2025, with results expected on June 20.
National applicants linked to the Colombian risk system will have costs covered.
Scholarships for international attendees are supported through WTREX and Amazonía+ programs.
