Attracting and encouraging diverse talent within the fire sector is pivotal to the IFE. With women often being underrepresented across engineering, we have made it our mission to drive equilibrium and make space for women within the industry. With only 7.8% of our members identifying as female, there is still a way to go, and in line with our 5-year Equality, Diversity and Inclusion strategy, we’re setting milestones and developing activities that aim to drive improvements globally.
Studies show that groups similar to the IFE Women's Networking Group have had a major impact on breaking down barriers that have prevented women from entering traditionally male-dominated roles. Groups such as this are pivotal in reducing bias and discriminatory practices in advertising and recruitment, as well as creating a workplace environment where all individuals feel welcomed, accepted and appreciated.
The group came to fruition in 2021 and witnessing the female cohort go from strength to strength has been nothing short of incredible. With over 800 active members now on the LinkedIn group, the IFE Women's Networking Group has been instrumental in supporting, developing and inspiring women within the fire sector and provides a platform to share experiences, knowledge and opportunities.
The group have been responsible for the creation of a regular and varied CPD programme which includes its first conference taking place later this week.
Studies show that groups similar to the IFE Women's Networking Group have had a major impact on breaking down barriers that have prevented women from entering traditionally male-dominated roles.
Ahead of the conference, IFE Chief Executive, Steve Hamm, said: "Since October of last year, the IFE has seen its female membership increase by another 129 members and we truly believe that the IFE Women’s Networking Group have been instrumental in driving this.
"The Women’s Networking Group is the first such support group in the IFE but we are determined to support others. We are currently in the process of establishing the group in accordance with the IFE’s rules and governance procedures and no doubt the members of the Networking Group board will be providing more information on this during the conference. The IFE is always keen to progress and establish relationships with those who have similar interests, which is why we’re happy to support the Women in Fire Service and will be sponsoring the award for the Firefighter Rising Star at this years’ awards ceremony."
Alongside developing the platform for women in fire, the IFE are working to ensure the highest standards of behaviour from IFE at all grades and including volunteers. We have now redrafted and publicised a new ‘Code of Conduct’ and ‘Standards of Behaviour’ protocols. To enforce these we have re-written our Complaints and Disciplinary procedures and enlarged the membership of the Ethics Committee to oversee these.
Steve added: "All these new Codes, Protocols and Procedures have been written to be in line with industry best practice and are consistent with the Engineering Council guidance and expectations. Our Chair of the Ethics Committee, Ron Dobson and the wider members are dedicated to increasing the diversity of the Ethics Committee and welcome new members. For anyone looking to be part of shaping the ethical conduct of the fire industry, we encourage you to get in touch."
With an interesting and varied conference agenda planned for delegates we look forward to hearing the discussions and outcomes for what is sure to be a very successful day. If you are interested in learning more about the group or wish to join click here.