Source: NCDA&CS, 9/29/21


“Growing up in Ashe county, I was surrounded by forests,” said Gail Bledsoe, Fire Chief with the N.C. Forest Service. “It was a place of peace for me and has always been like home.” As a child, Gail was surrounded by forestry, not only because that was her playground, but also because her family was very involved with logging. Although she didn’t initially major in forestry at N.C. State University, after three years she decided to stop running from her fate and pursue a career in forestry. “I always knew that I loved forestry but it wasn’t until my junior year of college that I decided to take the leap of faith and pursue what I loved,” she said, “and it was then that I started working with the N.C. Forest Service as an intern, doing research and making connections.” Upon graduation, Gail worked for Bladen Lakes State Forest for a short time before coming on staff at the N.C. Forest Service, where she remains to this day.

Gail has served in many roles throughout her time with the forest service and is currently serving as Fire Chief where she is involved in a variety of tasks throughout the year, including emergency response and management.

“I have seven people that I supervise and work with on various projects across the state,” she said, “no matter what I am doing, I try to bring my best to the job. I knew this position would challenge me and help me grow in my career. I hope that it inspires other women and men to do the same and further the future of this industry.”

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