Institution of Fire Engineers to host hybrid AGM and Rasbash Lecture in July 2025
Iain Hoey
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Hybrid format enables broader participation
The Institution of Fire Engineers (IFE) has confirmed that its Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held in a hybrid format for the first time.
According to the IFE, this change is intended to increase accessibility and ensure members across different locations can participate.
The 2025 AGM is scheduled for 16 July, with members able to join either in person at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Stratford-Upon-Avon or online via the AGM website.
Steve Hamm, Chief Executive of the IFE, said the new format reflects the institution’s aim to support modern working practices.
He said: “The AGM is a key moment in the IFE calendar. It’s a chance for members to hear important updates about our future and our achievements to date, and to vote on resolutions.”
He added: “This year’s hybrid format means members can take part wherever they are in the world — whether joining us in Stratford-upon-Avon, home to IFE Head Office, or logging into the meeting online. We’re pleased to be making this event as inclusive and accessible as possible.”
Rasbash Lecture to follow the AGM
Following the AGM, the IFE confirmed the return of the Rasbash Lecture.
The lecture will be webcast live after the meeting and delivered by Martin Shipp, BSc (Physics), CPhys, MInstP, CEng, FIFireE.
The IFE stated that Shipp is a fire safety specialist with a background in fire investigation and building regulations.
His talk, titled ‘Participating in history – fire investigation and research’, will be made available as a recorded session through members’ MyIFE accounts.
Members attending in person are invited to a drinks reception with the speaker after the lecture.
The organisation noted that the lecture aims to provide practical and historical perspectives on fire safety for professional audiences.
Attendance options for members
The IFE stated that members will receive an email on 16 June from UK Engage, its AGM partner.
The message will contain a unique security code and full joining instructions for the meeting.
Members planning to attend the AGM or Rasbash Lecture in person must register through the IFE website.
The deadline for registration is 14 July.
The IFE added that those joining online will access the event via the dedicated AGM portal.
Recordings of both the AGM and lecture will be uploaded to member accounts following the event.
Registration details and deadlines
The IFE urged all members wishing to participate to check their emails for the UK Engage message.
It stated that secure login information is required to access both the live online event and the recordings.
Members planning to travel to Stratford-Upon-Avon must confirm attendance via the IFE website.
The registration process will close on 14 July.
The institution also advised members to update their contact information if necessary to avoid delays in receiving access credentials.
Event reflects IFE’s digital direction
The IFE explained that the hybrid AGM format is part of its wider focus on digital engagement and inclusivity.
It stated that offering both online and in-person options reflects its membership’s international distribution.
The organisation also highlighted that recordings will help ensure those who cannot attend live can still access the material.
According to the IFE, the model aims to increase participation and ensure members remain informed regardless of location or schedule.
It added that it will continue to review feedback on the event format to inform future decisions.
Fire engineers to host hybrid AGM and Rasbash Lecture in July 2025: Summary
The Institution of Fire Engineers will hold its 2025 AGM in a hybrid format.
The event will take place on 16 July.
Members can attend in person in Stratford-Upon-Avon or online.
Steve Hamm, IFE Chief Executive, confirmed the new format.
The Rasbash Lecture will follow the AGM and be webcast live.
Martin Shipp will deliver the lecture on fire investigation and research.
A drinks reception will follow the lecture for in-person attendees.
Recordings of both sessions will be available via MyIFE accounts.
Members will receive joining instructions from UK Engage on 16 June.
Registration for in-person attendance closes on 14 July.
The IFE stated the format supports broader participation.