The next STEP: Delivering a UK Fusion Industry

Debbie is a Chartered Engineer and Certified Programme Manager with 30 years’ experience in aerospace engineering, applied research, technology demonstration and major programme delivery, having held roles in the US and UK. As STEP Fusion’s Director of Engineering Programme, Debbie is responsible for the overall engineering programme in addition to developing links with industry to support STEP’s concept design. She previously worked at BAE Systems as Group Engineering Director.

Ben joined UK Industrial Fusion Solutions as the STEP Programme's Head of Communications in March 2025, where he leads the strategic development and delivery of all internal and external communications. His connection to the STEP programme goes back to 2021, when he led the campaign to bring STEP Fusion to West Burton during his time as Leader of Nottinghamshire County Council. Ben is also a former Member of Parliament (2017-2024) and former Board Member of the East Midlands Combined Authority, with a strong understanding of the impact and benefit that STEP Fusion brings to the local area.

James is the Member of Parliament for Rushcliffe (since 2024) and former Leader of Bassetlaw District Council in Nottinghamshire, where he was part of the initial bidding to host STEP Fusion in the District, at West Burton power station. Prior to being involved in politics, James was a Programme Manager in the Energy sector, at firms like Northern Powergrid and SSE (formerly Scottish and Southern Energy). The Fusion APPG works to raise the profile of the UK's fusion sector in Parliament, working with private industry as well as public organisations like the UKAEA.

James's attendance is subject to Parliamentary Business.