10 December 2025
Blog: 2025 A year in review
Steve Hamm, CEO of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) contemplates the past year and how it has not only inspired the IFE yet also impacted the wider community of the fire sector.
As 2025 draws to a close, we can reflect on a remarkable year. We have worked tirelessly to support and shape the evolving fire safety landscape through key initiatives, strategic partnerships, and the continued dedication of our members and volunteers worldwide.
Driving progress through our strategic vision
Leading Fire Safety: One of the defining moments of 2025 was the official launch of this new strategic vision. Developed in close consultation with members and stakeholders, the strategy is designed to inspire excellence and resilience across the profession.
In addition to hosting flagship events such as the FIRE Conference, the International President’s Technical Conference, and the Graduate Lecture, IFE has proudly represented the profession at major global trade shows. This includes the IFSJ Leaders Conference in Dubai, Intersec in Saudi Arabia, the NFPA Conference & Expo in Las Vegas, and the Fire Safety Event in the UK.
IFE technical activities
The IFE has had an exceptionally active year advancing technical standards and guidance such as BS 8674, which sets competence requirements for fire risk assessors, and the forthcoming BS EN 81-76 standard for evacuation lifts. Additionally, we supported the publication of PAS 8700:2025, addressing modern construction methods - continuing our commitment to shaping the future of fire safety through robust standards and their practical implementation.
A major focus this year has been the draft update to PAS 9980, introducing tools to help determine when a Fire Risk Appraisal of External Walls (FRAEW) is required. This empowers non-specialists to make informed decisions and promotes proportionality in risk assessment. We have also strengthened engagement with Special Interest Groups through new Terms of Reference and are leading the response to the Grenfell Tower Inquiry Phase 2 recommendations. None of these achievements would have been possible without the dedication and expertise of our volunteers.
Empowering the next generation
Following the launch last year of the Early Careers Networking Group (ECNG), we introduced Elevate; an exciting new series of 60-minute interactive online sessions led by experts from across the global fire sector. Backed by respected partners such as the ASFP and London Fire Brigade, Elevate provides an essential platform for learning and engagement.
Following its overwhelming success, Elevate has been extended into 2026, offering even more opportunities for engagement and knowledge-sharing. By closing critical skills gaps and fostering the next generation of fire safety leaders, Elevate continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the industry.
Championing sector reform and knowledge sharing
In April, the UK Government reaffirmed its commitment to building safety reform, setting ambitious targets for cladding remediation and outlining significant regulatory changes. In alignment with this, the Engineering Council introduced the new UK-SPEC HRB standard, strengthening professional competence for those working on higher-risk buildings - a standard the IFE proudly supports. Working closely with the Engineering Council and other institutions, we continue to contribute to safer, better-managed buildings.
Our Equity, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EEDI) work also advanced meaningfully in 2025. In partnership with Equal Engineers, we hosted a series of member-led focus groups, enabling IFE members to actively shape EEDI initiatives within the organisation and the wider global fire sector.
Celebrating milestones and shaping the future of fire safety
Another milestone was the launch of the inaugural International President’s Technical Conference, a long-anticipated event designed to spotlight critical technical issues in fire safety. This was complemented with the re-introduction of the Graduate Lecture and Rasbash Lecture - both celebrating the breadth of talent in fire safety, from emerging professionals to seasoned experts. We also held our first hybrid Annual General Meeting - a significant step toward greater inclusivity and accessibility for all members.
As we move into 2026, the IFE remains dedicated to advancing the fire safety profession worldwide. With a renewed strategy and an enthusiastic global community, we are well positioned to lead the next era of progress in fire engineering and safety.