London Fire Brigade promotes fire investigation careers to young women
Iain Hoey
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Fire education outreach introduces students to forensic careers
London Fire Brigade has reported a series of STEM engagement activities aimed at encouraging more young women into science and engineering through fire investigation education.
Fire Investigator Lisa Wincott led a lecture for Forensic Criminology students at the University of Greenwich ahead of the 12th International Women in Engineering Day.
Wincott used real case studies, CCTV footage, and scientific analysis of fire scenes to demonstrate practical applications of forensic techniques and share career opportunities within the Brigade.
Dr Molly Ackhurst, Lecturer in Criminology at the University of Greenwich, said students described it as their “favourite class of the term”.
The Brigade confirmed that the programme forms part of a wider effort to expand awareness of STEM-related careers and support representation of women in fire and safety professions.
Students take part in hands-on fire investigation session
Following the university lecture, London Fire Brigade arranged a practical visit to Dowgate Fire Station for participating students.
During the visit, students wore fire investigation PPE, examined equipment, and identified mock evidence as part of an immersive learning experience.
They were also introduced to Smokey, the Brigade’s fire investigation dog, who demonstrated detection techniques used during real fire scenes.
First-year student Kiara Curzon said the event deepened her interest in fire investigation and allowed her to see how classroom theory connects to fieldwork.
The Brigade stated that the visit was designed to make fire careers more tangible and support academic learning with real-world examples.
Outreach expands to local secondary schools
In addition to the university programme, London Fire Brigade organised outreach to Norbury High School for Girls as part of its community STEM initiative.
Fire Investigator Lisa Wincott and Station Officer Steve Girling led interactive sessions for Year 10 pupils, focusing on forensic science, public safety, and fire scene interpretation.
The Brigade noted that this work builds on its long-term effort to diversify its workforce and increase visibility of career paths beyond frontline firefighting.
Pupils were given the opportunity to handle forensic tools, interpret mock evidence, and ask questions about routes into science-based careers.
London Fire Brigade confirmed this session forms part of its strategy to engage underrepresented groups in technical and investigative roles.
Lisa Wincott shares her fire investigation journey
Lisa Wincott, who has worked with the Brigade since 2019, shared her own professional background during the outreach sessions.
She holds a degree in Forensic Biology and a master’s degree in Fire Investigation, and initially joined the service as a non-uniformed staff member.
Wincott trained alongside operational colleagues to achieve the same fire investigation qualifications, according to the Brigade.
She said: “It’s important for young people to see that the fire service offers more than just firefighting. There’s a whole world of science, investigation, and public service to discover.”
Wincott added that if she could inspire a few students to pursue fire investigation as a career, she would be proud of the outcome.
STEM and fire safety promotion will continue
London Fire Brigade said it plans to continue working with schools and universities to encourage interest in STEM careers through the lens of fire science.
According to the Brigade, only 26 per cent of the UK’s STEM workforce identifies as women, prompting a need for focused outreach.
Future sessions will continue to highlight both fire safety risks and forensic science careers, linking public safety to education.
The Brigade confirmed that its Fire Investigation team will remain involved in this work throughout the year.
The organisation added that these initiatives reflect its commitment to bridging the gender gap in science and engineering.
London Fire Brigade promotes fire investigation careers to young women: Summary
London Fire Brigade has conducted STEM outreach sessions ahead of International Women in Engineering Day.
Fire Investigator Lisa Wincott delivered a lecture to Forensic Criminology students at the University of Greenwich.
The lecture featured fire science case studies and video footage to demonstrate investigative techniques.
Students later visited Dowgate Fire Station for a practical session on fire investigation tools and methods.
They met Smokey, the Brigade’s fire investigation dog.
First-year student Kiara Curzon described the event as “fantastic” and said it increased her interest in the field.
Wincott also facilitated sessions for Year 10 pupils at Norbury High School for Girls.
She shared her background in forensic biology and fire investigation.
The Brigade said only 26 per cent of the UK’s STEM workforce identifies as women.
It plans to continue engaging schools and universities in promoting STEM careers linked to fire safety.
