THE humble beginnings of Forth and the company’s journey of growth over 25 years are the subject of a new podcast released this week.
Our CEO, Mark Telford appears as a guest on iSH Presents, a popular series launched last year by the Industrial Solutions Hub.
In the episode, which is now streaming on YouTube, Spotify and Amazon Music, Mark chats with host, Miranda Kirschel, from a pop-up studio in Forth’s Deep Recovery Facility.
He said: “It was great to appear on the iSH Presents podcast and follow in the footsteps of some fantastic recent guests who I’ve got a lot of respect for.
“Business is about collaboration and whilst we are all chasing our own financial goals and ambitions, it’s important that we support each other by sharing insights and experiences because a stronger West Cumbrian economy benefits us all.
“I enjoyed the conversation with Miranda and would like to thank her and the iSH team for giving me the opportunity to appear on the podcast.”
iSH Presents features senior leaders from manufacturing, nuclear, engineering, robotics and digital sectors, exploring how Cumbrian organisations are delivering solutions to complex global challenges whilst building long‑term regional capability.
Hosted by the iSH team, the podcast focuses on leadership, innovation and the realities of operating in highly regulated and technically demanding environments.
In the episode, Mark reflects on Forth’s evolution from a small, local operation into a growing engineering business, shaped by customer need, regional demand and long‑term thinking.
He discusses how listening closely to clients continues to influence decisions around investment, locations and services, while maintaining a focus on people and skills.
Mark also talks about the importance of being accessible to customers across West Cumbria and the positive momentum within the business – announcing exciting news about Forth’s Cleator Moor base.
Following Forth’s 25th anniversary, Mark transitioned from managing director to CEO, taking on strategic oversight of the business while supporting the next phase of growth.
Known for his pragmatic, community‑rooted leadership style, Mark has previously spoken publicly about how growing up in West Cumbria shaped his approach to work, responsibility and creating opportunities for others.
His leadership has been closely tied to Forth’s emphasis on social value, workforce development and long‑term skills investment in the region.
You can watch the podcast on YouTube here, listen on Spotify here and on Apple Podcasts here.
