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Melissa Brown, Home Hardening Specialist
Melissa is one of VRFSC’s Home Hardening Specialists. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Wildfire Science and brings a diverse background in wildfire prevention, mitigation, and emergency response. Her experience includes serving as both a Wildland Firefighter on hand crews and engine crews with the United States Forest Service, where she worked in some of the nation's most challenging fire environments. In addition to her firefighting experience, Melissa served as a Defensible Space Inspector with CAL FIRE, working directly with homeowners to evaluate wildfire risks and implement effective defensible space practices. This role strengthened her understanding of how thoughtful vegetation management, home hardening strategies, and community education can significantly improve a property's resilience during wildfire events.
Driven by a passion for protecting both people and natural landscapes, Melissa is committed to helping communities become more prepared for the increasing challenges posed by wildfires. She enjoys empowering homeowners with practical, science-based solutions that reduce risk while promoting long-term sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Russell Rawls, Home Hardening Assessor
Russell received a BA from Amherst College. His career encompasses over 33 years that includes 2 years as a wildland firefighter on LACOFD’s Camp 9 Type I Handcrew. His last 31+ years was with LAFD as a Firefighter Paramedic the first 21 years and the last 10 years as a Fire Prevention Inspector that included brush clearance inspections.
His hobbies include Astronomy (4 telescopes and counting), cycling (55 miles max. His goal is 100 miles), and singing with the Channel Islands University Chorus, Pacific Sound Barbershop Chorus, and vocal jazz.
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