In the lead-up to the 12th International Women in Engineering Day, a series of educational initiatives, led by Fire Investigator Lisa Wincott, is sparking interest among students across London.
London Fire Brigade is empowering young women to realise their potential as engineers, scientists, and leaders through the work of its Fire Investigation team. With only 26 per cent of the UK’s STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) workforce identifying as women, Lisa is helping to bridge the gender gap.
She recently delivered a lecture to first-year Forensic Criminology students at the University of Greenwich. Drawing on real-life case studies, CCTV footage, and the forensic science behind fire scenes, her talk brought theory to life, showcasing different career paths that young people can take within the Brigade.
Dr Molly Ackhurst, Lecturer in Criminology at Greenwich University, said: “Lisa Wincott came and spoke to first year Forensic Criminology students about fire investigation and impressed many of our students. After first discussing the science behind not only how fires spread, but how she, as a Fire Investigator, figures out what has taken place at a scene, Lisa went onto discuss real cases.
“The case which many of the students found most terrifying, was the video of the e-bike catching fire in a hallway.
“We received many compliments about Lisa’s lecture, and we were told by some of them it was their favourite class of the term”.
Following the lecture’s success, students visited Dowgate Fire Station for a hands-on introduction to Fire Investigation. The in-person session included trying on gear, using specialist equipment and identifying real pieces of evidence, as well as meeting Smokey, the Brigade’s fire investigation dog.
First year student, Kiara Curzon said: “It was a fantastic morning I really enjoyed it. It has intrigued me to find out more about fire investigation after my studies. Trying on the gear made it feel real, and I could've kept it on and gone to work! Also seeing Smokey in action was utterly brilliant.”
This outreach is part of a wider initiative by the Brigade to raise awareness of fire safety risks and spotlight careers that extend beyond firefighting. Lisa Wincott, along with Station Officer Steve Girling, also facilitated a visit from Year 10 students at Norbury High School for Girls, delivering interactive sessions that showcase the exciting world of forensic science and public safety.
Lisa said: “I’ve always been fascinated by forensics, which led me to study Forensic Biology and later earn a master’s in Fire Investigation. I joined the Brigade in 2019 as a non-uniformed staff member, training alongside operational colleagues and gaining the same qualifications.
“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. If I can inspire even a few to pursue a meaningful and challenging career in fire investigation, I’ll feel proud of the impact I’ve made.”
With plans already underway for future collaborations, London Fire Brigade is continuing to connect classroom learning to real-world careers and encourage the next generation of women into STEM careers.
