ABSTRACT
This chapter explores mountain and wildland environments as socially constructed masculine spaces where competence as a professional is linked to performing certain types of masculinity. The findings shared are from two studies conducted using a feminist appreciative approach to Action Research methods: A 2016 study amongst wildland firefighters in British Columbia, and a 2019 study amongst avalanche and guiding professionals in Western Canada. These professionals work in environments that are becoming increasingly risky due to climate change. The conflation of competence with masculinity is revealed to have negative impacts on wellbeing for all members of mountain and wildland professions, including harassment and discrimination, and increased suicide rates for cis-males. Notably, this includes negative impacts to team decision making, risk management, safety, and inclusion. Ultimately, the authors expose “masculinity as competence” to be a socio-cultural myth. While this myth is dominating the cultural discourse among professionals working in mountain and wildland environments at present, there is an emergent space for new culturally inclusive narratives in these environments.
