How regeneration can support local talent
We’re delighted to announce that Imogen, a student from The Leigh UTC, has joined BB7 this September as our newest Apprentice Fire Engineer.
Recruited through a collaborative effort with Ebbsfleet Development Corporation and The Leigh UTC, Imogen’s journey highlights the power of local partnerships in unlocking opportunities and supporting future talent.
Connecting education to employment
This apprenticeship represents the golden thread that connects education, opportunity, and employment within the local community.
It all started with BB7’s involvement in the Ebbsfleet Central regeneration project, a significant initiative transforming land around Ebbsfleet International Train Station into the civic and commercial heart of Ebbsfleet. As part of our social value commitments on the project, we delivered a series of webinars to local schools to raise awareness about careers in fire engineering, a field often overlooked by students despite its crucial role within the built environment.
Over the course of three days, we presented our “Introduction to Fire Safety Engineering” webinar to three secondary schools: The Leigh UTC in Dartford, St John’s Catholic School in Gravesend, and Wilmington Grammar School in Dartford. Around 28 sixth-form students attended these sessions, where they learned about real-world fire engineering challenges and the crucial role engineers play in safeguarding people and property.
Spotting potential early
After the sessions, we invited students to apply for a BB7 apprenticeship. We were genuinely impressed by the quality of applications and after a competitive shortlisting process, Imogen stood out.
The Leigh UTC has a strong focus on engineering and design, making it the ideal place to connect with students who are curious about the built environment. After taking part in our webinar, Imogen stood out as someone who had a real passion for problem-solving and a keen interest in how buildings work and stay safe. Her enthusiasm and potential made her a great fit for the apprenticeship opportunity at BB7.
“Starting this journey with BB7 means a great deal to me. It marks the beginning of a path where I aim to learn, grow, and build a meaningful future with the company. I’m truly grateful to The Leigh UTC, BB7 and Ebbsfleet Development Corporation for making this opportunity possible, and I’m looking forward to starting this exciting new chapter.” – Imogen Anscomb, Apprentice Fire Engineer, BB7.
A day in the life of an Apprentice Fire Engineer
Imogen will gain first-hand experience in what it means to be a fire engineer.
Alongside studying for her Fire Engineering BEng degree at the University of Central Lancashire, she’ll be learning about legislation and guidance, supporting the development of fire strategies, contributing to technical reports, and building a solid foundation in fire dynamics and consultancy. She will work closely with our team across the full lifecycle of a project, gaining hands-on experience of how theory and practice come together on real-world projects, guided and supported by experienced mentors throughout her journey.
“At Leigh UTC Dartford, we’re incredibly proud of Imogen for securing this fantastic apprenticeship with BB7. Her success is a brilliant example of how powerful it can be when education and industry work together. Partnerships like this not only open doors for our students but also give businesses access to fresh talent and ideas. It’s a collaboration that benefits everyone – students like Imogen gain meaningful career pathways, employers secure future-ready professionals, and together we build a stronger local community.” – Rich Merry, Assistant Principal, Leigh UTC Dartford.
What meaningful partnerships look like
This initiative is a brilliant example of how regeneration projects can deliver more than just buildings; they can nurture early education and build careers.
By working together, BB7, Ebbsfleet Development Corporation, and The Leigh UTC have created a pathway into the profession for a young person who might not otherwise have considered it. It’s a win for the student, the community, and the industry as a whole.
“We’re really pleased to be continuing important work with organisations such as BB7 & The Leigh UTC to drive inclusive growth that delivers real benefits to the local community. By aligning our efforts, we help open pathways into education and employment, ensuring that people of all backgrounds have the opportunity to thrive and contribute to a stronger and more equitable future. We’re really looking forward to hearing about Imogen’s time with BB7.” – Lara Pool, Inclusive Growth Manager at Ebbsfleet Development Corporation.
Creating opportunities, not just jobs
At BB7, we know that talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t. That’s why our HR team is actively working to widen participation and provide routes into the fire engineering profession for those who may not have considered it otherwise.
“At BB7, our commitment to early careers and social value isn’t just a programme, it’s a mindset. We believe in creating meaningful pathways into our industry that begin long before someone applies for a job. Through initiatives like this, we’re not only investing in the next generation of fire engineers, we’re helping to shape a more inclusive, skilled, and resilient future.” – Linda Douglas, Chief People Officer, BB7.
Looking to the future
We are pleased to welcome Imogen to the team. Her story reflects the kind of future we want to help shape; one where young people see real opportunities in fire safety and the built environment. Her journey reinforces the value of partnerships between schools, industry, and public sector organisations, and the lasting impact they can have.
This goes beyond just one apprentice. It’s about reimagining how regeneration and recruitment can go hand in hand and ensuring that everyone shares the benefits of community growth.