Please introduce yourself and tell us about your career to date.
I am Ellie Leadon, a Design Engineer at BB7, and I am based at our Kent headquarters. I joined as an Apprentice Fire Engineer straight after my A-Levels in August 2022 and have since progressed to my current position. I am also studying towards my BEng (Hons) in Fire Safety Engineering at the University of Lancashire and once completed, hope to study towards my Master’s degree.
My work at BB7 involves working with the team as the lead fire engineer on a variety of residential and commercial projects. This has included, but not limited to, being main point of contact for design teams, supporting projects through the Building Safety Act Gateways (where I have received GW2 approval), and providing support through detailed design and construction. I can also lead Computational Fluid Dynamic (CFD) modelling studies and engineering calculations for fire engineering solutions. In this role, I have supported in interviews, attended school career fairs to provide insight into apprenticeship routes. I have also been a member of the Women’s Engineering Society apprentice board.
Describe your apprenticeship role within your current workplace and describe what a typical working day looks like.
My role is varied and engaging, with no two days the same. I prepare fire strategies and engineering technical reports across a range of project sectors, with the main objective of demonstrating compliance with the functional objectives of Part B of the Building Regulations. I also undertake Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) modelling studies to demonstrate design suitability. I work closely with design teams and attend meetings and workshops to provide fire safety support and attend sites to review how designs are being implemented during construction. I produce drawing reviews, complete calculations, and provide technical solutions to complex fire engineering challenges, which are critical to the safety and success of projects.
I also attend CPDs and training sessions to continue my professional development, ensuring I stay up to date with continuously evolving sector standards and best practice. Alongside my workplace responsibilities, I attend the University of Lancashire on block release for two weeks at a time, which allows me to complement my practical experience with academic learning. This involves completing coursework and meeting apprenticeship compliance requirements.
What were your main reasons for choosing an apprenticeship over other educational or career routes (e.g., university, full-time work)?
An apprenticeship offered the best of both worlds – the chance to gain practical experience while continuing my studies and earning throughout the programme. The combination of working on live projects, learning directly from experienced peers, developing both technical and personal skills, and gaining direct insight into the fire engineering industry made an apprenticeship the ideal route for me to gain experience and prepare for a long-term career.
What specific skills or knowledge do you feel you’ve gained through your apprenticeship that will help you in your long-term career?
I have grown both professionally and personally throughout my apprenticeship, shaping me into the engineer I am today, and I hope to continue learning and developing as I progress in my career. It has allowed me to gain knowledge from my experienced peers and university studies, while I am also being presented with daily tasks and challenges that could never be experienced in a classroom. I am steadily discovering the breadth of fire engineering, the capabilities of Computational Fluid Dynamics and the unique approaches required for modern methods of construction.
My communication skills and confidence have developed since starting my apprenticeship, evidenced by my ability to not only contribute to technical discussions, but also to lead them, and respond to any challenges that may arise along the way. I have built strong teamwork and relationship-building skills, working with a range of personalities and disciplines daily, which is essential when working in a consultancy. My apprenticeship has helped me build the skills and experience necessary to become a competent fire engineer and has provided me with invaluable opportunities for growth.
Is there any advice you would pass on to someone considering doing an apprenticeship?
Before starting at BB7, I spoke to a friend who was completing an auditing apprenticeship, and she described it as the best yet most challenging thing she has ever done. I couldn’t agree more. While it can be demanding, I would encourage anyone considering an apprenticeship to GO FOR IT. Engineering is an exciting and rewarding field, with a wide range of pathways available, meaning you will likely find a role that suits you. I also recommend reaching out to companies for opportunities – the worst thing anyone can say is no!
Are there any particular challenges or unusual aspects to your apprenticeship role?
My apprenticeship involves balancing the demands of working full time alongside my university studies and meeting the apprenticeship compliance requirements, which can be challenging at times. This has, however, allowed me to gain hands-on experience from day one, accelerate my learning, develop new skills and grow both professionally and personally.
What do you find most enjoyable about your apprenticeship role?
Working with other engineers! I work in an environment which encourages me to develop my knowledge and skills allowing me to provide valuable contributions to design teams. Each day, I am presented with new opportunities to learn and grow, not just in my position as a Design Engineer, but also as an individual. I also enjoy the variety of the role, as every project is different and brings new challenges.
Is there a great professional achievement or high-profile accomplishment that you would like to tell us about in your apprenticeship role?
I have been fortunate to be involved in a number of achievements that I am proud of. I was honoured to be shortlisted in the Rising Star category at the Women in Fire Safety Awards 2025 and to participate as a panel member at BB7’s International Women in Engineering Event, where I was able to share my progression so far. I have supported the integration of new BB7 apprentices, helping them navigate the start of their corporate journeys and university studies. On a technical note, I was the lead engineer on a project that I have seen through from very early design stages to occupation as well as witnessing another project gain GW2 approval, which provided invaluable insight into the industry and supported my professional growth.
What inspired you to become an engineer or pointed you towards an engineering career?
Through school I didn’t know what I wanted to do; I wanted to go into Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Psychology etc. When I started exploring my career options with a friend, I stumbled across BB7. With little knowledge of fire engineering, I chose to pursue this route as it combined science and mathematical knowledge with creative thinking, which is something I enjoy. I love the variety of projects you can work on and how you can watch the progress of your developments.
As I delved deeper into fire engineering, it became clear I wanted to pursue this as a career path. Fire engineering encapsulates all my interests, evidenced by my university studies and daily responsibilities. We look into the chemistry behind fires, conduct various mathematical equations, use a lot of physics theories, and explore the psychology of how occupants react in the event of a fire.
What contributed to your decision to gain IFE Student membership?
The IFE was one of the first professional bodies I learnt about through both work and university, and it was recommended that I join. As I am studying towards my BEng, Student membership was the most suitable option for me, offering valuable learning resources, networking opportunities and professional support for those starting out in the industry.
How has being an IFE student member supported your development during your apprenticeship? (e.g., resources, networking, learning opportunities)
It has greatly supported my development during my apprenticeship. Access to learning resources, including CPD materials and webinars (with recordings), has allowed me to enhance my knowledge and keep my off-the-job log up to date. It has also provided opportunities to engage with other industry professionals, helping me build connections that support my growth both technically and professionally. It has also provided resources and guidance for my chartership application, allowing me to prepare effectively for when the time comes.
Would you recommend joining the IFE as a Student member to others? If so, why?
Yes! Membership offers a wide range of benefits and is free for students. In my experience, the most useful benefit is the learning resources, which are extremely helpful in developing my knowledge of specific topics. The IFE is a valuable platform for everyone in the fire sector, particularly those just beginning their journey in fire engineering, as it offers opportunities to learn, connect and grow within the sector.