Rachel Ostrander, California Climate Action Corps
Blazing Trails: Enhancing Wildfire Mitigation and Community Resilience
What inspired you to become a fellow?
My love for nature started during family road trips to national parks. That passion led me to study environmental science and later ecological restoration at Cal Poly Humboldt. Joining the California Climate Action Corps felt like the perfect way to turn that passion into action—helping communities build climate resilience.
How has your service impacted you and your community?
Teaching wildfire education in Paradise after the Camp Fire was powerful. Seeing residents gain confidence and tools to protect their homes inspired me to keep pushing for community resilience. As a team lead, I’ve helped other fellows thrive and brought more volunteers into our climate action events—amplifying our collective impact.
Rachel (center) at a community composting event.
What makes you proud of your service?
I’m most proud of helping certify over 150 people in the Wildland Fire Assessment Program. Empowering residents with knowledge to reduce wildfire risks built both safety and community strength—it’s amazing to know our work directly protects lives and homes.
How has California Climate Action Corps inspired your next steps?
Serving with the Corps confirmed my commitment to climate advocacy and policy. The experience inspired me to pursue environmental management and policy, and I used my Segal Education Award to complete my master’s degree. I’m excited to keep working toward systemic change in environmental policy.
“ Teaching wildfire education in Paradise after the Camp Fire was powerful. Seeing residents gain confidence and tools to protect their homes inspired me to keep pushing for community resilience.”
What are your plans after service?
I plan to keep working in climate action—whether in advocacy, education, or policy. My dream job is helping design and implement real solutions that strengthen communities and the planet.
What skill have you developed most?
Public speaking used to scare me, but leading lessons and events helped me gain confidence and clarity. Now I can communicate about climate issues with passion and purpose—a skill I’ll carry into every step of my advocacy career.
