STV’s Mohamed Mustafa (left in photo), CFPS, PE, senior fire project engineer, has been named Overseas Chapter Professional Engineer of the Year (Overseas Chapters) at the 2024 Engineers Australia Excellence Awards – Canberra. Mustafa received the honor at a ceremony held at the National Museum of Australia, which recognizes outstanding work and global impact among engineers.
“As the first finalist from an overseas chapter, this recognition reinforces my commitment to advancing fire engineering solutions worldwide,” Mustafa said. “I’ve always strived to bring innovative, sustainable and resourceful solutions to the forefront.”
With over 13 years of experience, Mustafa designs, reviews and oversees fire protection systems for projects ranging from small-scale fit-outs to iconic high-rise towers. He serves on the Queensland Board of Professional Engineers and advisory committees for the National Fire Protection Association. Mohamed also judges for Engineers Australia and chairs Fire Protection Association Australia, where he advocates for industry best practices and contributes to fire safety regulations, working closely with government agencies and stakeholders. He holds multiple credentials and certifications in Texas, Pennsylvania and Nevada.
Mustafa’s journey in the fire protection industry has taken him around the world. He started his career in the Middle East, working as a contractor in Saudi Arabia and Dubai for six years. When he migrated to Australia under the skilled migration program and became an Australian citizen, he transitioned to consulting, deepening his expertise in fire protection services and code consulting to align with Australian industry standards and practices.
Later, Mustafa decided to take on an additional challenge in his career by gaining international experience in the United States. He was offered a valuable opportunity with STV, which provided exposure to new market sectors and allowed him to apply American standards in his designs, broadening his knowledge of global practices and enhancing his ability to work with international codes and regulations.
In the U.S. Mohamed serves as a principal member of the National Fire Protection Association’s (NFPA) Technical Committee on Private Water Supply Piping Systems (AUT-PRI), contributing to key standards including NFPA 13, NFPA 24 and NFPA 291. He also serves on the Queensland Board of Professional Engineers and chairs Fire Protection Association Australia, working closely with government agencies and stakeholders on fire safety regulations. He holds
A Chartered Engineer, Mohamed has been committed to facilitating improvements in fire safety standards internationally, delivering economic, social and environmental benefits to communities across Australia and the United States. His leadership in national and international technical forums and his development of tools to enhance project delivery have positioned him as an industry leader in fire engineering and design.
“If I could impart one piece of advice to my younger self, it would be to never stop believing in your abilities and always aim higher,” Mustafa said. “Trust in your skills, stay resilient in the face of challenges and never be afraid to reach for the stars. Each step forward, no matter how small, brings you closer to realizing your full potential.”
Local winners will go on to represent their division at the national awards’ gala dinner in November at the Brisbane City Hall.
