About IFCA
Uniting independent disaster response contractors nationwide
Our Mission
The Independent Federal Contractor Alliance serves as the national hub for independent disaster response contractors, providing advocacy, resources, and community for those who risk their lives protecting communities from wildfires, floods, hurricanes, and other natural disasters.
We believe that independent contractors are the backbone of disaster response, bringing specialized skills, local knowledge, and rapid deployment capabilities that are essential for effective emergency management.
We are the experts on our forests, our lands, and our communities.We are IFCA. Together, we fight for fairness.
We are the experts on our forests, our lands, and our communities.We are IFCA. Together, we fight for fairness.
Who we are
Independent Fire Contractors Alliance (IFCA)
"Fighting for Transparency • Equity • Survival"
The Independent Fire Contractors Alliance (IFCA) is a national advocacy movement representing small wildfire contractors — the crews, fallers, equipment operators, and business owners who are the backbone of America’s wildfire response.
This year, thousands of local contractors across the country have been ready, staged, and mobilization-ready, yet systematically bypassed in favor of out-of-state cooperators and agency-owned resources.
We’re here to change that.
Founded by Jessica Creel, a single mom, EDWOSB-certified business owner, and longtime advocate for wildfire contractors, IFCA exists to:
Unite independent contractors nationwide under one powerful voice.
Demand transparency in resource orders and wildfire response decisions.
Fight for equity in federal and state contracting policies.
Protect local jobs, families, and economies tied to wildfire suppression.
We are the crews on the ground.
We are the businesses behind the equipment.
“The Independent Fire Contractors Alliance (IFCA) unites wildfire contractors nationwide to demand transparency, equity, and survival. Together, we are stronger. Together, we are IFCA.”
Our Values
Safety First
Every decision, every policy, every recommendation prioritizes the safety and well-being of our contractors and the communities they serve.
Unity & Advocacy
We believe in the power of collective voice, advocating for fair policies, better working conditions, and recognition of contractor contributions.
Excellence & Growth
Continuous improvement through training, education, and professional development ensures our contractors remain the best in the field.
What We Do
Advocate
We represent contractor interests in federal policy discussions, working with agencies to improve working conditions, payment processes, and operational procedures.
Equip
Our resource hub provides essential documents, training materials, certification programs, and operational guidance to help contractors excel in their roles.
Unite
We build community among contractors, facilitating networking, knowledge sharing, and mutual support across different disaster response specialties.
Inform
Regular updates on policy changes, new opportunities, safety alerts, and industry developments keep our members informed and prepared.