Forth Managing Director, Graham Cartwright, has been shortlisted in the Businessperson of the Year category at the 2026 BECBC Awards.
It’s the latest stage of a remarkable journey for Graham, who joined Forth as an 18-year-old apprentice in 2004.
After impressing Forth co-founder Mark Telford with his work ethic and technical knowledge, Graham was appointed Projects Director in 2010.
Having played an increasingly influential role in the business’s growth, Graham was announced as Forth Managing Director last November at the company’s 25th anniversary celebration, with Mark Telford moving into a CEO role.
Graham said: “It’s an honour to be on the BECBC Awards shortlist with some very impressive candidates. When I walked into Forth’s Maryport office as a young lad 22 years ago, I never dreamed I’d be in this situation.
“The last 12 months have been amazing for me and, more importantly, for Forth. What we’ve achieved is down to the team’s skill and hard work.
“I wanted to build on what Mark created, building a supportive and collaborative workplace, and a culture where people are encouraged to fulfil their potential.
“I try to lead from the front. If the power goes out at the weekend, it will be me who comes in at 8am on a Saturday or Sunday. Why would I ask someone else and potentially ruin their weekend when I can go in just as easily?”
Forth is one of the largest privately owned engineering companies in Cumbria, specialising in creating and delivering advanced technology solutions.
Under Graham’s leadership, Forth is celebrating a remarkable year with record turnover and record profits. The company has also delivered two world-first innovations that have proven to be gamechangers in the nuclear decommissioning industry.
As part of its expansion under Graham’s leadership, Forth has further developed its Maryport HQ and is in the process of opening a fourth Cumbrian site, at Beckermet.
The BECBC Awards celebrate the innovation and collaboration that define Cumbria’s energy sector supply chain.
The Businessperson of the Year category recognises a business owner or employee with outstanding business acumen and excellent leadership skills.
The 2026 ceremony will be held at Energus, Lillyhall, Workington, on Thursday, November 19.