A laptop displaying a website titled "Resource Library" on a sandy ground surface.

Wildland Fire 101

Semi-Custom Website Design
Full-Service Copywriting

Wildland Fire 101 is an educational hub created by a seasoned wildland firefighter to guide aspiring firefighters into this line of work. My redesign transformed a text-heavy blog into an intuitive resource library, making this specialized, often jargon-filled career path more accessible to everyone—particularly women. The new site also introduces sustainable revenue streams that honor the founder's time and expertise.

The Transformation

Before

The original design relied heavily on text with limited visual hierarchy, creating a sometimes challenging reading experience.

Website screenshot featuring wildland firefighting information. Includes a header image of firefighters in a forest, text offering guidance on getting a wildland fire job, and sections about application processes, job requirements, and safety tips. Images of controlled burns and firefighters in action accompany the text.
Image of a webpage featuring a list of blog posts related to wildland firefighting. The posts cover topics such as free NWCG wildland fire classes in California for 2025, job postings for the 2025 season, and podcast features with Katrina Mohr discussing fire-related topics. There are also tips on resume preparation for federal wildland fire positions. Each post includes a title, a brief description, and a date.
Article about wildland firefighting, emphasizing its dangers and physical demands. Includes three images: firefighters hiking with gear; firefighters operating in snowy conditions; and a scenic lookout point over mountains. Text provides insights into the demands of the job, typical schedule, and required fitness levels.

After

The new design features a refined color palette, improved typography system with clearer hierarchies, and breathing room between sections to enhance readability.

Webpage layout showcasing a wildland fire program. Includes images of firefighters in action, a firefighter in a helicopter, and application guidance text. Features section headings like "About" and "In the press," with a list of podcasts and articles. Ends with an offer for personalized guidance sessions.
Webpage about wildland firefighter application process featuring guides, personal story, and donation section. Includes photos of firefighters and testimonials.

The Homepage

The redesigned homepage features striking photography from the field and provides clear entry points into the resource library. Content is organized by category—job application, field life, gear guides—while showcasing Katrina's expertise and insider perspective. The addition of storytelling elements and testimonials build credibility, introducing visitors to 1:1 support options, so they can find their personal best path forward.

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Improved Categorization + Filtering

The redesign organizes resources through simple dropdown menus that highlight the most important content first. Navigation guides users from application basics through specialized topics like women's resources and field life.

The Resource Library page makes finding content easier with visual filters that help visitors quickly narrow down articles to exactly what they need—gear advice, application help, or insights about life on the fireline. Essential info is a click away.

Website menu featuring "Wildland Fire 101," with dropdown options under "Application Basics" including Minimum Requirements, Resume Preparation, Application Process, Navigating USAJobs, and Success Strategies.
Website header for 'Wildland Fire 101' with a dropdown menu under 'Resources' showcasing options like '2025 Season' and 'Women in Fire' against a textured orange background.
Screenshot of a resource library webpage displaying six articles related to wildland firefighting gear. The topics include fireline pack contents, boot reviews, personal backpack essentials, travel bag packing lists, personal protective equipment, and women's clothing and gear. Navigation menu categories appear at the top.

Sustainable Monetization Strategy

The redesign introduces pathways to monetization through a new "Work With Me" page that turns Katrina's years of informal mentoring into clear service offerings with straightforward pricing. Her resume reviews and coaching sessions provide personalized help beyond what articles alone can offer.

A simple "Support This Project" option appears throughout the site for those who want to express their gratitude. This approach honors Katrina's time investment while keeping educational content free for all.

Webpage offering career guidance for wildland firefighting, including resume reviews and career coaching services. Features testimonials, pricing, and a contact section.
A firefighter in yellow gear battling a fire, accompanied by text encouraging donations to support wildland firefighting resources. Donation options are listed with a 'Donate' button.

Mobile Optimization

The redesign works beautifully on phones, breaking content into easy-to-read sections with plenty of space between elements and larger touch targets.

Person holding a smartphone displaying a message about supporting "Wildland Fire 101" with a donation and showing an image of a firefighter in gear.
Smartphone displaying two articles about wildland firefighting. The first article titled '100 Fires Every Wildland Firefighter Should Know About' features an image of a forest fire. The second article titled 'Everything I Carry in My Personal Backpack' includes an image of a wildfire near water.
Mobile screen displaying a webpage about the application process for wildland fire jobs, with steps for creating a USAJobs profile, finding positions, and building a resume. Includes a section for personalized guidance offering resume reviews and career coaching.

"Ellen! This is so much better, clearer, easier to navigate and understand, and more aligned with my initial vision than I ever thought possible! Truly exceeded all my expectations. Thank you so much."

—Katrina Mohr, Wildland Fire 101

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