Behind First Light Fusion is a team of 80 talented scientists, engineers, technicians, operations and business experts. Our team is from a wide range of backgrounds, but united by a passion for realising fusion energy at scale.
In the latest instalment of our ‘Meet the Team’ series, we hear from Elaine Winchester, Head of Business Development, who tells us what makes her so excited to be part of the fusion movement.
What is your role at First Light Fusion?
Elaine: I’m the Head of Business Development at First Light working on understanding where our incredible capabilities can add value in adjacent sectors like defence and space.
What did you do before FLF, and why did you want to join the team?
Before joining First Light, I was Sales Director at a technology start-up that used AI and machine learning to design and manufacture composite tooling. This was my first foray into the world of aerospace, space and defence manufacturing, and I was fortunate enough to see some of the most incredible things in my time there. We worked on some of the very first eVTOL aircraft projects and this gave me the opportunity to travel all over the US. Often, I was able to be part of something that had never been done before, and that was something I really valued.
When I discovered First Light, I was taken with the mission they were on and not just by fusion itself, but by the ambition behind it. It’s not every day you get to be part of something that could literally change the world. And beyond that, fusion’s spin-off technologies have the potential to reshape other industries. That’s a real lure for me as I believe the best advancements in technology are made when you stick your head above the parapet and are open to learning from those around you.
What most excites you about the future of fusion energy?
Of course, the idea of limitless clean energy in itself is awesome, but what really excites me is what it means for industry and innovation in every sector. The journey to fusion is already creating breakthroughs in materials science, high-speed computing, and plasma physics – all of which have applications far beyond energy.
I see fusion as a vehicle for supporting R&D in other industries, and that creates a bit of a circular economy effect. I say it all the time – a rising tide raises all (space) ships!
What advice do you have for someone interested in working in the fusion energy industry?
Do it! The scale of the opportunity is huge, and there’s room for so many different skill sets. Whether you’re a physicist (which I am definitely not!), an engineer, or from a commercial background, there’s a role for you to play, and opportunities are growing by the day.
When you’re not at work, what do you enjoy doing?
That’s easy…dancing! I’ve been doing salsa and bachata for about 20 years now and it’s my passion. I was part of the Oxford University bachata performance team at the start of 2025, which was so much fun.
What’s your favourite thing about working at First Light?
Definitely the people. There’s such a strong sense of shared purpose here. Everyone is passionate, talented, and genuinely driven to make fusion a reality. It’s a brilliant environment to be part of.
