Ahmed Ibrahim, PE, PMSFPE

In my current role, I am responsible for ensuring that building projects comply with fire protection codes and standards while guiding projects to successful completion through active leadership in fire protection design and code consulting. I facilitate collaboration across various disciplines—including architectural, mechanical, plumbing, and electrical teams—to ensure seamless integration of fire and life safety systems into overall building designs. I regularly engage with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), including local fire departments and municipal water authorities, to review fire protection infrastructure, discuss hydrant placement, and confirm the adequacy of water supply and the accuracy of fire department connections. My coordination efforts help ensure that fire safety measures are both code-compliant and practically effective for emergency response. During the construction phase, I provide ongoing technical support by reviewing shop drawings, hydraulic calculations, and product submittals related to sprinkler, standpipe, and alarm systems to verify system functionality. I also conduct field inspections to confirm that installations align with approved designs and code requirements, and I document findings through detailed construction-phase reports. I contribute to internal quality assurance by promoting consistency across fire protection deliverables, which helps reduce project risks and maintain high design standards. Additionally, I address field issues efficiently by responding to requests for information (RFIs) and clarifying design intent, ensuring smooth progress throughout the construction process.

In this role, I was responsible for ensuring compliance with fire protection codes and standards while driving the successful completion of building projects through leadership in fire protection design and code consulting. I coordinated with multidisciplinary teams—including architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing disciplines—to effectively integrate fire and life safety systems into building designs. I worked closely with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), such as local fire departments and municipal water authorities, to review fire protection infrastructure plans, determine hydrant placement, and confirm water supply adequacy and fire department connection accuracy. These efforts ensured that both design and operational requirements were fully aligned with regulatory expectations. Throughout the construction phase, I provided technical guidance by reviewing shop drawings, hydraulic calculations, and product submittals for sprinkler, standpipe, and alarm systems to ensure proper system functionality. I conducted field inspections and produced construction-phase reports to verify that installations complied with approved designs and applicable codes. I contributed to quality assurance by helping standardize fire protection deliverables across projects, reducing design inconsistencies and mitigating potential risks. I also resolved on-site challenges by addressing RFIs and clarifying design intent, supporting contractors and project teams in implementing accurate and code-compliant solutions.

During this job tenure, I led the fire protection design and code consulting efforts for a wide range of building projects, ensuring timely delivery and full compliance with applicable codes and standards. I coordinated closely with cross-functional teams—including architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing disciplines—to align fire and life safety strategies with broader project goals. To facilitate smooth project execution and reduce delays, I engaged directly with Authorities Having Jurisdiction (AHJs), including local fire departments and municipal water authorities, to evaluate critical infrastructure elements such as water supply adequacy, fire department connection (FDC) locations, and hydrant placements. This collaboration accelerated permitting processes and contributed to more responsive and code-aligned design outcomes. During construction, I actively supported field operations by addressing Requests for Information (RFIs) and technical queries, helping contractors resolve site-specific issues while preserving design intent and code adherence. I conducted thorough field inspections and compiled comprehensive construction-phase reports to verify that installations matched approved designs and regulatory standards. Additionally, I played a key role in internal quality assurance by identifying design inconsistencies early and reinforcing standardized processes, thereby reducing risk and enhancing the overall quality of deliverables. Improved system performance and reduced installation errors through detailed reviews and feedback on shop drawings, hydraulic calculations, and product submittals for sprinkler, standpipe, and alarm systems.

During this job tenure, I led the development of fire protection designs for major projects across the GCC, ensuring full compliance with NFPA and Saudi Building Code (SBC) standards. I was responsible for the design and documentation of fire suppression systems—including automatic sprinklers, standpipes, hose reels, and fire pumps—in accordance with NFPA 13, 14, and 20, as well as international codes, to ensure both safety and functionality. I created detailed fire protection design packages that included system layouts, riser diagrams, equipment sizing, and technical specifications, enabling smooth project execution and providing contractors with clear guidance. Close coordination with architectural and MEP teams helped prevent system clashes and supported effective integration of fire and life safety features into overall building designs. To maintain quality and minimize design errors, I participated in rigorous internal QA/QC reviews, verifying code compliance and technical accuracy throughout each phase of the project. Conducted early-stage fire risk assessments and proposed appropriate code-compliant protection strategies tailored to specific building types and occupancy requirements. Reviewed technical submittals and provided on-time support during the implementation phase to facilitate accurate system installation and avoid construction delays. Actively contributed to coordination meetings for high-rise and complex mixed-use developments, addressing design challenges and ensuring smooth interdisciplinary collaboration. Performed detailed hydraulic calculations using specialized software tools to verify system performance and support optimized, code-compliant design solutions.

I was responsible for delivering code-compliant and efficient fire protection system designs by managing the development process from initial concept through to construction documentation. This included the design of sprinklers, standpipes, hose cabinets, and fire pump configurations, ensuring alignment with project requirements and applicable codes. To support accurate implementation during construction, I assisted in preparing technical specifications and reviewed contractor submittals during the bidding and documentation stages. I worked closely with architectural, structural, and MEP teams to integrate fire protection components seamlessly into the overall building layout, reducing coordination issues and enhancing design efficiency. I ensured the accuracy and regulatory compliance of all fire protection designs by adhering to NFPA standards, the Saudi Building Code (SBC), and project-specific guidelines. I developed clear and consistent documentation—including system layout drawings, riser diagrams, and equipment schedules—using AutoCAD and internal standards, which improved clarity and streamlined project execution.

Fire protection courses at WPI: Fire Modeling, Fire Protection Systems, Advanced Fire Suppressions, Detection, Alarm and Smoke Control, Building Fire Safety, Performance Based Design Fire Protection Courses from Cal Poly towards the WPI's Fire Protection Master Degree: Structural Fire Protection, Fire Protection Management in the Wildland-Urban Interface, Fire Safety Regulation and Management.