The Disaster Lab partners with experts to test and validate innovative construction materials and technologies that enhance disaster preparedness and community resilience. Focusing on sustainable, equitable solutions, we connect innovators with decision-makers to integrate these advancements into existing infrastructure and workflows.

The ENGIN 183C course immerses students in hands-on problem-solving in climate resilience and disaster technology. Focusing on practical solutions for disasters with high disruptive potential, students collaborate with agencies such as CalFire, the Coast Guard, CalTrans, and local fire agencies. Our students’ recent award for ‘Oilnosis’ at the Collider Cup highlights the course’s impactful, real-world focus, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to global climate and environmental challenges.

We work with Marin County Fire, CalFire, FIRE Foundry, NASA, and startups in fire tech to advance landscape and community-level wildfire resilience. We test remote sensing technologies and improve fire risk models through machine learning, offering internships for Cal students and FIRE Foundry members to gain practical experience. Additionally, we support field tests for labs and start-ups, like Gridware and Squishy Robotics, in real-world wildfire scenarios.

The Disaster Lab addresses a range of climate-driven disasters, from wildfires and earthquakes to rising sea levels and pollution. We develop and test innovative technologies for wildfire protection, assess sea level impacts on coastal communities, and create advanced pollution monitoring tools to protect vulnerable populations. Through partnerships with industry, academia, and government, we run pilot programs, conduct research, and evaluate technologies focused on sustainable, equitable disaster prevention. In close collaboration with UC Berkeley’s faculty and labs, we work to meet the needs of first responders and frontline communities, striving to build a resilient future amidst climate challenges.

Launched in 2021 as a partnership between Marin County Fire Department, UC Berkeley Disaster Lab, College of Marin, and Conservation Corps North Bay, FIRE Foundry trains underrepresented community members for careers in fire services. The program equips recruits with skills in technology, GIS, remote sensing, and robotics to tackle challenges in disaster response. By fostering diversity and practical tech skills, FIRE Foundry is building a future-ready, community-focused fire service workforce.