Andrea White has become one of the most respected and influential voices within the UK fire safety sector, combining nearly 25 years of technical expertise with a relentless commitment to competence, inclusion, mentorship, and industry improvement. As a Fire Engineer, business owner, mentor, public speaker, and founder of Women Talking Fire, Andrea has consistently demonstrated leadership that extends far beyond her professional role.
In 2021, Andrea established her own consultancy, A W Fire Ltd, built around a simple but powerful principle: “Dedicated to Competence.” This philosophy defines every aspect of her work. From carefully structured scopes of work to professionally drafted contractual documentation created alongside legal experts, Andrea has built a consultancy grounded in clarity, accountability, and technical excellence. Her reputation within the industry is built not simply on experience, but on precision, diligence, and an uncompromising commitment to high standards.
Influencing Fire Safety Standards Nationwide
Andrea’s influence extends directly into national fire safety guidance and professional standards. As a volunteer member of British Standard Committee BS9994, she played a key role in shaping the updated guidance and personally drafted Clause 7 on competence for the new BS9994 document. This contribution reflects not only her technical expertise, but also her determination to raise standards across the industry at a time when competence and accountability have never been more critical.
Her standing within the sector is further reinforced through her work as an expert witness for the Courts. Andrea is highly regarded for her professionalism, balanced judgement, and ability to provide clear, evidence-based opinions in complex cases. These responsibilities require not only technical knowledge, but integrity and trustworthiness at the highest level.
Creating a Platform for Women in Fire Safety
Alongside her technical career, Andrea has become a driving force for inclusion and representation within the fire safety industry. In 2023, after conceiving and almost single-handedly organising the first women’s conference within the sector, she established Women Talking Fire, an independent networking and support group for women and male allies working across fire safety.
In just two years, the organisation has grown to almost 700 members within its private community, alongside more than 2,800 LinkedIn followers and over 20,000 monthly page views. More importantly, Women Talking Fire has created genuine visibility, support, and opportunity for women within an industry where representation has historically been limited.
Andrea’s leadership is rooted in action rather than rhetoric. Through public speaking, podcasts, industry articles, panel discussions, and LinkedIn thought leadership, she consistently advocates for meaningful change across the sector. She works closely with event organisers to improve female representation on stage and ensure that conversations around inclusion, competence, and leadership are properly reflected within industry events.
Mentoring the Next Generation
One of the defining aspects of Andrea’s contribution is her commitment to mentoring and supporting others entering the industry. Over the last decade, she has mentored more than 300 individuals, offering practical guidance, encouragement, and professional support to people at every stage of their careers.
Her commitment goes even further. Andrea is personally funding an individual through a Bachelor’s degree in Fire Engineering at UCLan as a way of giving back to the profession and helping support the next generation of fire engineers.
