Please introduce yourself, describe your role or position within your current workplace and what a typical working day looks like.
My name is Lianne Humphries and I work at OAG Limited as a Business Development Manager – Fire, where I am involved in the delivery and coordination of specialist fire-rated glazing and façade solutions. I work closely with contractors, architects, and project teams to review fire-rated requirements, develop compliant design solutions, and support projects from the early design stages through to delivery.
A typical working day involves reviewing technical drawings and specifications, coordinating with estimators and engineers, responding to client queries, and helping to develop practical fire-rated glazing systems for complex building designs. I also manage communications with project stakeholders, attend meetings to discuss design development, and ensure that proposed systems align with fire safety regulations and testing requirements.
My work often includes evaluating fire-rated elements such as curtain walling systems, stair core glazing, and external façade screens, ensuring that proposed solutions meet both performance standards and project programme requirements.
What motivated you to pursue an IFE qualification, and why did you choose the IFE over other pathways?
I chose an IFE qualification to strengthen my technical understanding of fire safety and fire-rated systems within the construction industry. I regularly work with fire-rated glazing and façade solutions, so gaining a deeper knowledge of fire engineering principles helps me better support design teams and ensure the solutions we propose are both compliant and technically sound.
IFE is widely recognised across the fire safety and engineering industry and provides a structured framework for developing both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding. The qualification also supports continuous professional development and demonstrates a commitment to maintaining high standards within the fire safety sector.
Have you taken an IFE online exam? Can you share your experience and the benefits of this format
I took an IFE online exam and found the format very convenient and accessible, particularly as it allowed me to sit the exam without needing to travel to a physical test centre. This made it much easier to balance studying with my work commitments.
The online format was straightforward to use and well structured, which helped reduce some of the pressure that can come with exam environments. Being able to complete the exam in a familiar setting also helped me stay focused and manage my time effectively. Overall, the online option is a great benefit as it provides more flexibility while still maintaining the professional standards expected from an IFE qualification.
How did the IFE qualification help deepen your understanding of fire engineering or strengthen your professional confidence?
Completing the IFE qualification helped deepen my understanding of the key principles behind fire safety and fire engineering, particularly how different systems and materials perform in real fire scenarios. It gave me a stronger technical foundation and a clearer understanding of the regulations, testing standards, and design considerations that apply within the built environment.
This knowledge has strengthened my professional confidence, especially when discussing fire-rated solutions with architects, contractors, and project teams. It allows me to engage in more informed technical conversations, support design decisions with greater assurance, and ensure that the solutions we propose are aligned with both safety requirements and industry best practice.
How has the IFE qualification helped your career?
Gaining the qualification has had significant impact on my career. It enhanced my credibility within the fire safety and construction industry, enabling me to engage more confidently with clients, architects, and project teams on complex fire-rated solutions.
It has also opened new opportunities for professional development, allowing me to take on more technically challenging projects and contribute at a higher level in design discussions. Overall, the qualification has strengthened both my technical expertise and my professional reputation, supporting my growth as a trusted advisor in fire-rated glazing and façade solutions.
What advice would you give to someone considering taking an IFE exam (in-person or online) for the first time?
Prepare thoroughly and plan your study approach early. Make sure you understand the syllabus and focus on areas that are most relevant to your role or career goals. Whether taking the exam in-person or online, it’s important to familiarise yourself with the exam format and practice time management, so you can complete all sections comfortably.
I’d also recommend using real-world examples from your own work to reinforce your understanding, as this makes the material more practical and easier to recall. Finally, don’t underestimate the value of staying calm and confident on exam day, the IFE exam is designed to test understanding, not to trick you, so trust in your preparation.