As we reflect on our activity over the past twelve months, we’re delighted to share the strides we’ve made in our mission to advancing the global fire sector. From a surge in membership to achievements in expanded presence and diversity, we look back on 2023.
A diverse and growing membership
Following our commitment to nurturing the next generation of talent and supporting aspiring fire engineers, this year we announced the provision of free student membership. We’re pleased to share that IFE membership has grown by 10% (statistics from October 2023 vs 2022 membership figures), driven largely by student memberships which has significantly added to our pool of budding talent. Through offering student membership, we provide a rich array of tools and resources, empowering exam candidates and future professionals to stay abreast of the latest advancements in fire engineering, whilst connecting with our global network of specialists.
Upholding the highest standards
The IFE became the first professional engineering institution (PEI) to secure a licence for registering engineers and technicians rigorously evaluated against the Engineering Council’s new standard; UK-SPEC HRB Fire Engineering Discipline Annex. This achievement demonstrates our commitment to upholding the industry's highest standards, ensuring that our members are rigorously evaluated and recognised for their expertise. This represents a huge step forward in raising safety and competency standards in the built environment industry; the process will be launched early next year.
Driving global fire safety
From subjects such as electric vehicles and car parking facilities to multiagency response and evidence recovery following gas explosion, the IFE has provided many CPD events worldwide throughout 2023. Alongside our branches and groups who organise regular CPD, IFE international headquarters introduced a series of webinars covering a range of subjects. Collectively, we remain dedicated to drawing upon the expertise of our global cohort, extending knowledge and enhancing competency across fire safety.
2023 has seen our marketing team expand with dedicated PR and Communications support. Our presence within the media, both trade and consumer press, has seen tremendous growth, from expert commentary on global events to providing industry perspectives. In 2023, the IFE secured multiple pieces of coverage resulting in a calculated reach of 2.6 million, (the extent or reach of distribution, indicating the coverage achieved by a publication).
A key strength of the IFE lies in its diverse and dedicated community of volunteers. As part of Volunteers’ Week, we celebrated the contributions of over 400 volunteers worldwide. Our global pool brings together a wealth of knowledge, fostering collaboration and ensuring that the IFE remains at the forefront of global fire engineering advancements.
Welcoming our first female president
In a historic moment for the IFE, we welcomed our first female international president in our 105-year history. Hayley Burgess took on the role and looks forward to working with our volunteering cohort to drive advances in fire and create further space for woman in the sector.
Global presence
The IFE has made good progress this year to establish new international branches and we hope to reveal more information on this in the New Year.
We’ve also expanded our presence in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), underscoring the importance of formal recognition and collaboration. A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed in partnership with the Assistant Director General for Fire and Rescue Affairs at Dubai Civil Defence (DCD), alongside our CEO, Steve Hamm, demonstrating our commitment to advancing the profession globally.
With the development of formal recognition remaining key, this traditional ceremony formalises professional relationships and solidifies an intended line of action moving forward.
Evolving alongside the built environment
Over this year we increased our presence at events such as Building a Safer Future, UK Construction Week, London Build, FIREX and Healthcare Estates as we continue to recognise the growing importance of collaborative efforts across the built environment. We’ll continue to consult with government agencies on evolving fire safety frameworks, addressing critical issues such as lithium-ion battery safety and promoting sustainable construction methods.
Recognising the critical role that Responsible Persons now play in fire safety, the IFE actively assisted in expanding the knowledge of those that now have enhanced fire safety within their remit and provided guidance on how to navigate the new legislation, particularly Fire Safety (England) Regulations 2022.
This year has seen excellent growth for the institution and demonstrated our unwavering commitment to excellence, collaboration and competency. We will continue to make fire safety advances, foster global partnerships and champion the next generation of professionals as we move forward into 2024. This will see us amplify our passion for professional registration and help members to navigate new frameworks post Grenfell inquiry.
We look forward to another year of innovation, progress and shared accomplishments.