Trent Fearnley assumes leadership of the Institution of Fire Engineers

As reported by the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), Trent Fearnley has been appointed as the IFE’s new International President.

He takes over from Hayley Burgess, whose appointment last year made history as the first woman to hold the position in the organisation’s 105-year history.

In a statement shared on LinkedIn, Fearnley expressed his gratitude: “Today I am honoured to be announced as the new International President of the Institution of Fire Engineers.

“The Institution is represented in 26 countries, and I am proud to represent the Institution on the world stage.

“I am also supported by the newly elected board member Angela Fearnley and newly elected International General Assembly Leader Jason Hill. NZ is leading the way in fire safety!”

He is supported in his role by newly elected board member Angela Fearnley and Jason Hill, the new Leader of the IFE International General Assembly.

Jason Hill named IFE international general assembly leader

Jason Hill has been appointed as the new Leader of the IFE International General Assembly, a position he will take up in January 2025.

The announcement was made at the IFE’s Annual General Meeting in London.

Hill said: “I am extremely proud to serve as the Leader of the Institution of Fire Engineers International General Assembly from January 2025, as announced at the IFE AGM today in London.

“This role is an important conduit between our 15,000 global members and the International Board of Trustees to ensure we continue to build a profession that enhances public safety and drives innovation for a safer world from fire through Innovation, Communication, Education and Legislation.”

Hill also acknowledged the election of IFE Australia Vice President Angela Fearnley and the installation of Trent Fearnley as International President, noting the strength of New Zealand’s presence in the global fire safety community.

Trent Fearnley’s extensive career in fire safety

With over 25 years of experience in the fire industry, Trent Fearnley has held numerous positions, including fire engineer, technical trainer, specialist fire investigator, and operational fire officer.

Fearnley played a key role in the development of the New Zealand Diploma in Fire Engineering and represents the fire industry on the Vocational Engineering Education in New Zealand Board.

He is also an active member of the New Zealand and Australian Standards committees, representing the IFE in both countries.

His contributions to fire safety were recognised by the Building Officials Institute of New Zealand, awarding him for his commitment to skills development and education.

Leadership transition at the IFE

Trent Fearnley’s appointment marks a transition in leadership for the IFE, as he takes over from Hayley Burgess.

Burgess’s tenure was historic, and her contributions to the IFE’s global reach and inclusivity will continue to shape the organisation.

As the IFE moves forward, its new leadership team, including Fearnley, Jason Hill, and Angela Fearnley, is expected to drive further advancements in fire safety through a focus on education, legislation, and global collaboration.

Institution of Fire Engineers names Trent Fearnley as new International President: Summary

Trent Fearnley has been appointed as the International President of the Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE), succeeding Hayley Burgess, who made history as the first woman to hold the role.

Fearnley is joined by Jason Hill, who has been named the new Leader of the IFE International General Assembly, and Angela Fearnley, newly elected to the IFE International Board.

With over 25 years of experience in fire safety, Trent Fearnley has held various roles across the industry.

The new leadership team aims to advance global fire safety through innovation, education, and legislative efforts.