Meet The Team
Jason Sugden
My interest in the fire sector began in 1989 when I joined the Retained Fire Service on Alderney in the Channel Islands. This voluntary role, involving domestic and commercial fire safety, road traffic incidents, cliff rescues, and aircraft accidents, shaped my career path.
In 1990, inspired by this experience, I joined the airport fire service, completing training on Guernsey and at Teesside Training College. In 1992, I moved to the UK, working at Carlisle Airport during its expansion before brief employment at Liverpool Airport. In 1995, I joined Southampton International Airport, later progressing through roles at Heathrow and Edinburgh Airports as Leading Firefighter, Sub Officer, Station Manager, and Chief Fire Officer.
During my time with BAA (1995–2015), I gained extensive experience in training and fire safety, earning Train the Trainer, Assessor, and Verifier qualifications, as well as certifications in breathing apparatus instruction and first aid. My fire safety role included collaboration with the London Fire Brigade and Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service on projects, along with fire investigation and report writing.
After medically retiring in 2015, I established my own fire safety company, specialising in fire risk assessments and training. I lead a team of professionals, all former firefighters or fire officers, to provide comprehensive fire safety services.
Ian Cope
I joined the Royal Navy in 1979 as a Naval Airman (Aircraft Handler), completing training at RNAS Culdrose in Cornwall before joining the airfield fire and rescue team at RNAS Yeovilton. During my service, I was part of HMS Bulwark and HMS Illustrious (809 NAS), worked at RNAS Lee-on-Solent, and served with 845 NAS at Yeovilton, supporting Royal Marine Commandos. I also had short postings to HMS Rooke in Gibraltar and the Falkland Islands. I left the Navy in 1987.
Following my naval career, I joined Southampton Airport’s Fire & Rescue Service as a firefighter, eventually rising to Station Manager. In 2003, I became a Station Manager at Gatwick Airport Fire & Rescue Service, retiring in 2017 after 30 years in the fire service.
After a brief break, I decided to return to meaningful work. With a qualification in fire risk assessments (FRAs), I began working for Jason in 2019, conducting FRAs and delivering fire safety training.
Kevin Montgomery
I joined Southampton International Airport Fire Service as a probationary firefighter in April 1999 after completing a six-week basic training course.
After a year in service, I enrolled in the leading firefighter training programme, covering six modules and a final exam, which I passed in 2003. I then became a leading firefighter, a role I found particularly rewarding for the opportunity to train other staff.
In 2004, I helped establish the airport’s commercial training programme, delivering courses for various organisations including Fords, NHS, and H.M Coastguard. To ensure high standards, I implemented regular audits and supported staff in earning PTLLS teaching qualifications.
In 2000, I also joined Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service as a retained firefighter at Waterlooville, one of the busiest stations in the country. Over 16 years, I gained extensive experience handling diverse fire incidents.
After leaving the fire service, I chose to continue in training and joined Benfield Fire Safety, recognising the importance of workplace fire safety.
Alison Orchard
From the age of 5, I dreamed of becoming a fire engine driver. That dream came true in 2000 when I became a firefighter at Southampton International Airport, driving Major Foam Tenders. I became a Leading Firefighter in 2002 and later qualified as Crew Commander. Alongside operational duties, I trained others in road traffic accidents, fire safety, health & safety, manual handling, and risk assessments. My work in risk assessment led to a two-year project improving the airport’s safety procedures, reporting directly to the Board of Directors in preparation for CAA and H&S audits.
After retiring due to injury, I supported businesses by enhancing their H&S administration through bespoke workplace inspections, risk assessments, operating procedures, and fire risk compliance. I also worked part-time as a Lead Invigilator at schools and Southampton University, ensuring exam procedures and integrity were upheld.
Outside work, I am Team Secretary for Hampshire Search & Rescue Dogs and serve as Operational Support. This volunteer team works with police and other agencies to locate high-risk missing persons, a rewarding role even during late-night callouts in challenging conditions. I’m proud to be part of this team, supported by Benfield Fire Safety.
