IFE celebrates women in fire engineering for INWED 2026

by Breaking NewsCommunicationsPeoplePeoplePublic Events

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has launched a week-long campaign to celebrate women working across the fire engineering profession as part of International Women in Engineering Day (INWED) 2026.

Running from 21-28 June, the campaign highlights female fire engineers from across the IFE’s global membership community, recognising their expertise, leadership and innovation in helping to create a safer built environment.

International Women in Engineering Day, held annually on 23 June, celebrates the achievements of women engineers around the world. The 2026 theme, Engineering Intelligence, focuses on the expertise, judgement and leadership women bring to engineering across every sector.

Throughout the week, the IFE will share member stories from women working in different countries, career stages and professional specialisms. The spotlights will explore how females are advancing fire safety, supporting professional standards and inspiring future generations of fire engineers.

The campaign will also examine how IFE membership has supported the development of female fire engineers by providing access to peer networks, learning resources, professional recognition and wider opportunities to contribute to the fire safety community.

The IFE, which represents more than 15,000 members globally, said the campaign reflects its commitment to supporting greater diversity across the fire sector. Women from the United Kingdom, Australia, the United States and South Africa will feature during the campaign.

Professionals are also being encouraged to join the IFE Women’s Networking Group, which provides a supportive community for females across the fire sector to connect, share experiences, develop professionally and help inspire the next generation.

The IFE said the campaign aims to highlight the expertise strengthening fire safety today while encouraging the females who will help shape the sector in the future.

Institution of Fire Engineers sets 3 June date for technical conference return

by EventsFeatured NewsFire Engineering

IFE conference returns in June

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced that the International President’s Technical Conference will return in 2026 on 3 June at the University of Wolverhampton.

The IFE said the one-day event will focus on modern topics affecting the fire sector under the theme “Amplifying our advantages on approaching hazards”.

Curtain walling fire safety will be included in the programme.

The conference will also address the impact of residential fire sprinklers on lithium-ion battery fires.

Smoke control will form part of the day’s discussions.

IFE programme and speakers

James Lane CEng FIFireE, IFE International President, will host the event and said: “Following the success of its inaugural year, the International President’s Technical Conference returns in 2026 as a must attend event for the fire safety community.

“This conference provides a vital platform for bringing together expertise from across industry, policy, research, and practice to address today’s fire safety challenges while exploring the technologies and ideas shaping the future.

“By fostering collaboration, innovation, and open discussion, the event plays a crucial role in helping us build safer, more resilient communities.

“It reflects the IFE’s ongoing mission to strengthen knowledge, collaboration and forward thinking across the global fire sector.”

Panel discussions will take place at the end of each morning session and each afternoon session.

The day will end with a drinks reception sponsored by Belimo.

Wintech is sponsoring the event, and the IFE said sponsorship opportunities remain available alongside Wintech, Belimo, F.I.R.E Consultancy, DCCH Experts and the University of Wolverhampton.

Limited places are available, with the full programme and ticket details listed on the IFE website.

IFE to recruit full-time chief executive and add new technical role

by Breaking NewsFire EngineeringPeople

IFE leadership team investment

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is expanding its leadership team through two new appointments, including a full-time Chief Executive Officer and a full-time technical post based at its headquarters in Stratford-upon-Avon.

The IFE announced the recruitment on 28 January 2026.

Recruitment plan and leadership transition

Steve Hamm, the IFE’s current Chief Executive, said: “As well as expanding our leadership capacity, these two new appointments will ensure organisational resilience and enable us to provide services to our members that reflect the evolving role of the IFE as the leading international professional body for fire safety, and to support emerging regulatory frameworks for registered fire engineers and technicians.

“Having been CEO on a part-time basis for the past five years, I will transition to a strategic fire safety advisory role following the appointment of a new full-time CEO later this year.

“The new Chief Executive will provide a dedicated full-time resource for the IFE, supported by qualified professionals who form the Corporate Management Team.”

The recruitment process is planned as a comprehensive process to ensure the Corporate Management Team is resourced for the future.

Paul Stollard, IFE Chair, said: “These appointments come at a critical time providing essential support for the IFE’s growth which will enable us to effectively navigate the increasing demands placed on the institution, particularly since the publication of the Grenfell Tower report.

“The board recognises that the current CEO has led the organisation for over 5 years on a part-time basis, having initially been engaged to provide oversight of a change management programme.

“As a qualified Chartered Engineer with extensive strategic leadership experience, Steve has led the IFE through an era of significant organisational development, leading to the situation where greater capacity is needed in both strategic leadership and technical expertise.

“The recruitment of both roles demonstrates IFE’s commitment to reinforcing its leadership framework and positioning the organisation for sustained growth and resilience.”

The IFE said it is working with a specialist executive recruitment agency to lead the appointment of the new Chief Executive Officer.

Further updates on the appointment and on strengthening technical staff resources will be shared in due course.

Call for nominations to IFE roles

The IFE said nominations opened on 1 February 2026.

Three vacancies are available, comprising two Trustee roles and the position of International President Elect.

One Trustee will be elected by the voting membership and one by the IFE International General Assembly representatives.

Trustees are responsible for setting strategic direction, overseeing governance, managing risk and ensuring legal and charitable compliance.

The International President Elect will serve for one year from the AGM in July 2026 before automatically becoming International President for a further year.

Eligibility and nomination deadline

The IFE stated that nominees for International President Elect must be Corporate Graded Members, including paid-up Life Fellows, Fellows, Members and Associates.

Applications must be supported by current serving trustees of the Board.

All nominations and supporting information must be submitted to company.secretary@ife.org.uk by 12:00 noon GMT on 28 February 2026.

IFE and FIA fire safety guidance targets serviced apartments and aparthotels in England

by Featured NewsFire EngineeringSafety

Fire safety grey area inside aparthotels

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), working with the Fire Industry Association (FIA), has published an introductory note on serviced apartments and aparthotels and the fire safety challenges they can create for design, compliance and building management in England.

The IFE said serviced apartments and aparthotels are increasingly common in UK urban developments and mixed-use buildings, with rental durations ranging from single nights to months or longer.

It said this creates uncertainty because the units can resemble standard flats but operate more like hotels in terms of occupant turnover and familiarity with the building.

The note said this grey area can affect both building design decisions and the way fire safety is managed during occupation.

Why occupancy affects compliance routes

The IFE said many fire regulations treat buildings containing “dwellings” differently from buildings that do not, and that the definition can be complex.

It said duration of occupancy is often a key factor, with daily rentals less likely to be classed as dwellings and year-long rentals more likely to meet that definition.

Regulation 5 of the Building Regulations sets out scenarios that can count as a “material change of use”, including changes to the number of dwellings or converting a building into a hotel.

The IFE said converting an existing building to serviced apartments or an aparthotel is likely to be treated as a material change of use, requiring compliance with the functional requirements of the Building Regulations.

In this scenario, the “non-worsening” criteria often applied to existing buildings would not apply.

The IFE said the trend of converting redundant city-centre offices into aparthotels or flats can be complex and may fall short of purpose-built residential standards if not carried out competently.

Fire safety strategy and evacuation decisions

The IFE said blocks of flats are often designed around a stay put approach, based on compartmentation and occupants being familiar with escape routes and procedures.

It said serviced apartments and aparthotels can challenge that approach because short-term occupants may be unfamiliar with the building, which can point towards simultaneous evacuation in some cases.

The note said any move towards simultaneous evacuation would bring different design and management needs, such as enhanced detection and alarm, clear signage, escape route management and a continuous staff presence with evacuation planning.

It said a hybrid approach may suit some buildings, where an initial smoke detector activation triggers an alarm within the flat of origin and escalates to full evacuation if a heat detector activates in a key location.

The IFE said this would need careful consideration alongside management response expectations and any smoke control system designed around one flat evacuating at a time.

Sprinklers or alternative automatic suppression systems should be considered as part of the overall strategy.

The note added that a hotel-based approach can also be challenging because many aparthotels include cooking facilities, which are not typically present in hotel bedrooms.

HRB status and fire risk assessment scope

The IFE said the status of a building as a Higher Risk Building (HRB) in England can depend on height and whether it contains at least two residential units, a care home or a hospital.

It said the definition of “residential units” excludes hotels, and that it is currently unclear how serviced apartments and aparthotels fit within HRB occupancy definitions.

The IFE said this distinction affects whether building control applications go to a Local Authority or Registered Building Control Approver for non-HRBs, or to the Building Safety Regulator (BSR) for HRBs.

It said HRBs in occupation must register with the BSR and have a Building Safety Case in place, and that failing to do so could be a criminal offence.

The note said changes in how units are rented could change the regulatory position, including scenarios where longer-term rentals lead to units being classed as dwellings.

The IFE said fire risk assessment scope can also change under the Regulatory Reform (Fire Safety) Order 2005, because dwellings are excluded but non-dwellings must be included.

It said if units are not dwellings, fire risk assessments would need to cover the apartments themselves as well as common areas, affecting responsibilities, enforcement and compliance.

What this means for building fire roles

Fire engineers and fire engineering consultants may need to confirm intended occupancy patterns early, because the note links rental duration to how terms like “dwelling” may be interpreted in practice.

Risk assessors may face changes to fire risk assessment scope where units are treated as non-dwellings, because the note says this can extend assessment beyond common parts into apartments.

Architects, building services engineers and M&E engineers may need to reflect on evacuation strategy choices where occupant familiarity is low, because the note contrasts stay put assumptions with short-term occupancy patterns.

Facility managers and building managers may need to test whether any managed evacuation approach can be sustained over time, because the note describes reliance on 24/7 staffing, training and long-term financial commitment in some strategies.

Developers and those engaging with building control may need clarity on regulatory pathways and HRB status, because the note describes different oversight routes for HRBs and non-HRBs and the legal consequences tied to registration and safety case duties.

FIRE Conference 2025 examines future-proofing of built environment

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IFE blog highlights FIRE Conference 2025 discussions

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has reported in a blog that FIRE Conference 2025 brought together sector leaders at the QEII Conference Centre and online to examine how to future-proof the built environment.

According to the IFE, the conference was sponsored by PartB and structured around plenary sessions, panel discussions and technical breakouts.

The organisation said the event opened with National Fire Chiefs Council (NFCC) Chief Executive Officer Susannah Hancock welcoming delegates and introducing a programme focused on the future of fire safety.

In the blog, the IFE described FIRE Conference 2025 as a key date in its calendar, with more than 500 delegates attending.

Plenary sessions cover leadership, resilience and standards

NFCC Chair Phil Garrigan OBE used the morning plenary to reflect on the previous eighteen months and the lessons drawn from that period.

He called for transformation across the sector, with a focus on efficiency and resilience in a changing operating environment.

Fire Sector Confederation Chair Steve McGuirk then examined leadership trends and the outlook for fire safety professionals.

IFE Chief Executive Officer Steve Hamm followed with a session on the need for greater standardisation in fire safety practice.

Hamm’s contribution focused on achieving more consistent approaches and on raising competency standards across the profession.

Global wildfire panel looks at rural–urban interfaces

The first panel session addressed rural and urban interfaces, wildfires and early detection.

Speakers included Rob Gazzard from the Forestry Commission, Chief Anthony Marrone from Los Angeles County Fire Department and former US Fire Administrator Dr Lori Moore-Merrell.

The panel shared international perspectives on wildfire management and the challenges of protecting communities where built environments meet high-risk vegetation, the discussion highlighted the role of technology in wildfire detection and monitoring.

Panel members also discussed the value of cross-border collaboration when preparing for large-scale wildfire activity.

Building safety and engineering workforce in focus

After a networking break, attention turned to building safety and regulatory experience.

Building Safety Regulator Chief Executive Officer Charlie Pugsley gave a review of 2025 activity and set out priorities for the coming year.

His session covered the regulator’s view of progress to date and areas where further work is still required.

A panel on attracting and retaining engineering talent, featuring contributions from Lynsey Seal and Michael Spearpoint.

Panellists highlighted the need for more diverse recruitment routes into fire engineering roles and for innovation in how employers support career development.

Technical breakouts and Moss Landing battery fire case study

The IFE blog noted that afternoon breakout sessions allowed delegates to choose between specialist topics.

Sessions examined construction product testing, competency in fire risk assessment, emergency standards and lithium-ion battery safety.

Speakers shared technical experience and practical approaches, and delegates were able to ask questions throughout.

A case study on the Moss Landing battery fire, presented by San Diego Fire and Rescue Battalion Chief Robert Rezende and colleague Justin Marquez, was described as a standout element of the programme.

The case study illustrated the complexity of incidents involving energy storage systems and the level of preparedness needed to manage them.

Conference role in IFE programme and next steps

In its blog, the IFE characterised FIRE Conference 2025 as a core event in its annual schedule.

The organisation stated that more than 500 delegates attended and that networking continued into the evening with a drinks reception sponsored by Belimo.

The blog commented on the value of using the conference to maintain relationships across the sector and to sustain discussion on raising standards.

The IFE thanked sponsors, exhibitors and speakers for their role in shaping the event content.

IFE members will be able to read a full FIRE Conference event report in the November issue of the IFP journal.

Recordings from the day are due to be made available on the IFE CPD Hub in the new year.

Implications of FIRE Conference 2025 themes

Sessions on leadership, standardisation and competency are relevant to fire and rescue chiefs, building safety regulators and senior fire safety officers who are reviewing organisational strategies.

The focus on rural–urban interfaces and global wildfire experience provides practical context for emergency and disaster response managers, wildfire specialists and public sector risk planners who deal with cross-jurisdictional risks.

Discussion of engineering careers and recruitment has direct implications for fire engineering consultants, mechanical and electrical engineers and training officers responsible for building and retaining technical teams.

Breakout content on construction product testing, fire risk assessment and lithium-ion battery safety is of practical use to risk assessors, system installers, fire-protection contractors and electrical contractors working on complex buildings and energy storage projects.

Forthcoming IFP journal coverage and CPD Hub recordings will give those groups structured material for in-house training, competency development and review of recent practice examples.

IFE appoints James Lane as International President for 2025–26

by Breaking NewsFire EngineeringPeople

Leadership changes announced by IFE for 2025–26

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has announced the appointment of James Lane CEng FIFireE as its new International President for 2025–26.

According to the IFE, Lane was elected by the Board of Trustee Directors to serve in the position, which includes representing the institution globally and engaging with international stakeholders.

Lane has more than 30 years of experience in the fire safety sector and has served on the IFE Board of Trustee Directors for six years.

He is also a member of the IFE Registrants Group, where he reviews and interviews prospective Chartered Engineer registrants.

Lane said: “It is a true privilege to serve as the International President of the IFE.

“On behalf of the institution, I extend sincere thanks to my predecessor, Trent, for his lasting contributions.

“His commitment to global collaboration has not only strengthened our international ties but also established a powerful legacy through the International President’s Technical Conference.

“I am inspired to build upon the strong foundation Trent has laid as we continue to drive the IFE forward.”

New president outlines focus on values and global engagement

Lane addressed members during the IFE’s recent Annual General Meeting, where he laid out his intended priorities for the year ahead.

He highlighted integrity, honesty and best practice as central values guiding his term in office.

Lane also noted his intent to promote the institution’s work and observe global fire safety activities supported by the IFE.

The institution said the role of International President is held in high regard, with responsibilities that include serving as the figurehead of the organisation and representing it at events worldwide.

Lane’s leadership will include both strategic promotion and direct engagement with professionals across international IFE branches.

Reintroduction of International President Elect position

The IFE confirmed that Mark Reilly CMIFireE has been appointed International President Elect.

The institution said this role has been reintroduced to increase leadership capacity within the presidential team and to ease transitions between presidential terms.

According to the IFE, Reilly has held multiple leadership roles within the organisation.

His past positions include Trustee Director for both the Australian and UK boards and leadership posts across the Australian Branch and International General Assembly.

The IFE said Reilly’s new appointment will provide additional support for Lane and strengthen the continuity of presidential duties.

Mark Reilly’s professional background and recognition

The IFE highlighted Reilly’s extensive career in emergency management and fire engineering.

In 2009, he was awarded the Australian Fire Service Medal as part of the Australia Day Honours in recognition of his contribution to firefighter training and leadership.

Reilly’s academic credentials span multiple disciplines, including Public Sector Management, Emergency Management, Applied Leadership, Fire Engineering, Building Compliance and Fire Safety.

The IFE described him as a Companion Member and long-standing contributor to the institution’s international activities.

His background in executive governance and education aligns with the aims of the Presidential team to expand leadership influence and operational support.

Presidential team to support global collaboration

Lane and Reilly will work closely to oversee the IFE’s international activities and reinforce engagement with fire professionals across branches and regions.

The institution said the expansion of the leadership structure is intended to enhance both administrative continuity and the IFE’s international presence.

Their joint term aims to maintain the momentum of previous initiatives while developing strategies to support the IFE’s global objectives.

Further updates on their activities and plans will be shared through official IFE channels.

The institution invited members and stakeholders to engage with the new team and contribute to its ongoing development efforts.

IFE appoints James Lane as International President for 2025–26: Summary

James Lane has been appointed as the new International President of the IFE.

Lane was elected by the Board of Trustee Directors.

The IFE announced the appointment on its website.

Lane has over 30 years of experience in fire safety.

He has served on the IFE Board for six years.

He is a member of the IFE Registrants Group.

Lane said the role is a privilege and thanked his predecessor, Trent.

He plans to focus on honesty, integrity and best practice.

Lane addressed members at the IFE’s Annual General Meeting.

The IFE also named Mark Reilly as International President Elect.

Reilly has held leadership roles in the Australian Branch and IGA.

He received the Australian Fire Service Medal in 2009.

Reilly holds qualifications in fire engineering and governance.

The IFE said the President Elect role supports leadership continuity.

Lane and Reilly will work together to advance global collaboration.

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Institution of Fire Engineers launches Leading Fire Safety strategy

by Breaking NewsFire Engineering

Institution of Fire Engineers unveils new ‘Leading Fire Safety’ strategy for 2025

According to the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), its newly launched ‘Leading Fire Safety’ strategy is designed to inspire excellence through knowledge, professional standards, and collaboration.

The strategy places IFE members at its core, empowering them to influence the understanding and management of fire safety.

It also highlights four key priorities aimed at addressing global fire safety challenges.

Development process of the strategy

The strategy was developed following a two-phase consultation process involving both members and external stakeholders.

Phase 1 gathered feedback from over 25 international branches, while Phase 2 expanded representation to 32 branches, amassing nearly 600 additional data points.

The consultation included engagement sessions and a membership survey to ensure diverse perspectives were incorporated.

Strategic priorities identified

The strategy highlights four primary themes: skills, development, and innovation; trust and reputation; organisational sustainability and engagement; and global influence and advocacy.

These priorities aim to address issues such as climate change, built environment safety, diversity, and fire safety responsibilities.

Next steps for the IFE

IFE Chief Executive Steve Hamm emphasised the importance of the strategy: “This was a huge project for 2024, and the result will address the challenges our sector faces.”

He added: “We hope this strategy empowers [members] to navigate and influence our sector.

“Regular updates about these projects will be issued to the membership.”

Institution of Fire Engineers launches Leading Fire Safety strategy: Summary

The Institution of Fire Engineers has launched its ‘Leading Fire Safety’ strategy, focused on promoting knowledge, professional standards, and collaboration.

Developed through a two-phase consultation process, the strategy draws on feedback from members across 32 branches globally.

It outlines four strategic priorities: skills and innovation, trust and reputation, sustainability and engagement, and global advocacy.

IFE Chief Executive Steve Hamm stated the strategy addresses key challenges like climate change and fire safety responsibilities, aiming to empower members in shaping the sector.

Fuelling growth and innovation

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CEO of the IFE, Steve Hamm, shares recent progress made by the institution and sheds light on recent accomplishments

As the global demand for effective fire safety measures continues to grow, the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) remains at the forefront of advancing fire sector professionals.

This year, the IFE has expanded its reach to new audiences, is establishing new branches in key regions, and developed further resources for its members.

The IFE has always strived to expand its presence and engage with fire professionals and enthusiasts across the globe. In line with this vision, we’re thrilled to see our presence in the UAE flourish.

This year’s IFSJ Leaders in Fire & Safety Conference cemented our dedication to develop formal recognition within the UAE. I took part in the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in partnership with the Assistant Director General for Fire and Rescue Affairs at Dubai Civil Defence (DCD).

The traditional ceremony formalised our professional relationship with DCD, solidifying our intentions moving forward.

Dubai’s strategic location as a hub for innovation, construction and rapid urban development makes it an ideal platform for us to further support the DCD in making Dubai the safest city in the world.

Our working relationship not only provides a local network for professionals in the Middle East, it also enables our members to access our pool of shared knowledge, resources and professional development opportunities.

Expanding horizons

Building on this success, we’re actively exploring opportunities to establish branches in Egypt and Nigeria.

These regions demonstrate immense potential for growth and development in the fire sector and I look forward to sharing further updates in months to come.

By establishing a local presence, the IFE will support these countries’ fire safety efforts, foster collaborative working through shared knowledge and contribute to the development of fire engineering as a recognised profession.

Further resource for members

As the global professional body for those in fire, the IFE is committed to equipping members with the latest tools, resources, and knowledge to excel in their roles, driving advances across the industry.

To this end, we have developed a range of new resources that are readily available to our members. These include:

  • Research papers
  • Technical guides
  • Case studies
  • Over 90 examination centres across the globe

Furthermore, our online members area is proving to be an invaluable resource, housing the intricate details of legislative updates, unlimited access to CPD and resources in one place.

Promoting diversity and early careers

The IFE advocates for a diverse and inclusive workforce in the fire service, our Equity, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EEDI) task force is actively working on initiatives and programs to foster a more diverse and inclusive environment inside the institution and throughout the sector.

The IFE is committed to ensuring that talent from all backgrounds may thrive and contribute to the growth of fire engineering by pushing these efforts, headed by our International President, Dr Peter Wilkinson.

Recognising the value of developing young talent, the IFE has also established an Early Careers Networking Group.

This group will offer prospective fire professionals and those in the early stage of their career, a vital location to connect, learn from industry veterans and obtain insights into career options.

We are paving the way for new routes into the fire service and cultivating tomorrow’s leaders by encouraging mentorship, knowledge sharing and networking.

The IFE is making considerable progress in advancing fire engineering excellence, growing its global reach, and supporting its members across the built environment.

I’m looking forward to taking part in further discussions at our FIRE conference in October alongside UK Construction Week and The Healthcare Estates Conference.

Through the provision of new resources and shared knowledge, we equip our members with the tools to stay ahead in their careers and gain global intel through our discourse.

Our laser focus on diversity and inclusion, as demonstrated by the EEDI task group and Early Careers Networking Group, ensures that the fire profession becomes more accessible, inclusive and diverse, however, there’s still a way to go.

The IFE remains dedicated to pushing boundaries, driving progress and protecting lives through continuous advancement in fire engineering practices.

We invite fire professionals, industry stakeholders and aspiring fire engineers to join us on this journey towards a safer and more resilient future for all. For further information on becoming an IFE member, visit: www.ife.org.uk/Membership.

About the IFE

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) is a global professional membership body for those in the fire sector that seek to increase their knowledge, professional recognition and understanding of fire through a global discourse.

With over 100 years of history, the IFE is instrumental in shaping a future world that is safer from fire.

Through its ceaseless betterment and sharing of knowledge, it has led the way in enabling fire professions to become rigorously assessed through a well-established and dynamic system of internationally recognised membership grades and fire-related qualifications.

The IFE delivers more than 6,000 exams annually.

Managed for fire professionals by fire professionals, the IFE aims to promote, encourage and improve the science, practice and professionalism of fire engineering, acting as a beacon of established expertise and guiding the way to a fire safe future.

This exclusive article was originally published in the August 2023 issue of International Fire & Safety Journal. To read your FREE digital copy, click here.

Leadership shift at the Institution of Fire Engineers as Chair resigns

by Featured NewsPeople

IFE’s Chair and Technical Director Mark Chubb steps down

The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has made an announcement that its Chair and Technical Director, Mark Chubb, has stepped down from his roles.

According to the official statement released by the IFE, available here, Chubb’s resignation is effective immediately.

Interim leadership by Peter Wilkinson and Hayley Burgess

In light of the resignation, the Board of Trustee Directors will gather on the 25th of July to discuss and confirm the appointment of a new Chair.

Until such a time, Vice Chair Hayley Burgess will take up the responsibilities of the Chair.

She will receive support from the International President, Peter Wilkinson.

The statement further confirms that Peter Wilkinson will also be assuming the role of Technical Director on a temporary basis.

Wilkinson is not new to the role of Technical Director. As a former Technical Director for the IFE, Wilkinson brings with him a wide range of knowledge and experience. His expertise will be pivotal in guiding the wider technical team during this transitional phase.

The Institution of Fire Engineers has not provided any further information regarding Chubb’s resignation or the process of selecting a new Chair and Technical Director.

Volunteers’ Week marked by Institution of Fire Engineers

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The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), a renowned global professional body, will be participating in the 39th annual Volunteers’ Week, which is scheduled for June 1-7 this year.

The week-long event is celebrated by thousands of charities and voluntary organisations worldwide to appreciate and honour the invaluable work of volunteers. The IFE will use this platform to acknowledge the contributions made by its volunteers in the UK and abroad towards establishing a safer world with respect to fire incidents.

The IFE, during the week, intends to share interviews with its volunteers from various corners of the world. These interviews will throw light on the impressive work these individuals are carrying out daily to facilitate progress within the fire sector.

Over 400 volunteers are currently associated with the IFE, and their assistance is crucial to all operations of the charity – ranging from the development of Continuing Professional Development (CPD), facilitating research, formulating best practices, to conducting examinations globally.

This support is not restricted to benefitting the IFE’s 11,000 members but extends to the broader fire safety community who utilise IFE’s qualifications or recognised training for professional growth.

IFE Membership Growth

In the last year, the IFE’s Membership Application Assessment Panel and Registrants Group have efficiently processed over 1,150 membership and registration applications. In addition, the IFE’s volunteer examiners have written 55 examinations.

The IFE has also been instrumental in evolving specialised domains within fire engineering via its 10 Special Interest Groups (SIGs). These groups, addressing issues ranging from electric vehicles, emerging technologies, to fire safety at heritage sites, have played a crucial role in the establishment of several government regulations.

Steve Hamm, the CEO of IFE, commenting on the significance of Volunteers’ Week, said, “For over 100 years, the IFE has benefited from the incredible knowledge of its volunteering cohort. As a professional body, we’re bonded by the mission of advancing fire safety and making the world a safer place.

“Every day I’m amazed at the varied skill set and enthusiasm of our volunteers. From marking exams to chairing a special interest group, they’re a truly invaluable resource and a vital component in developing the formal recognition of professional standards globally. Thank you on behalf of the IFE.”

The IFE’s Volunteers’ Week campaign will kick off later this week. The IFE will be sharing relevant content on its website and social media channels.