A global leader in engineering solutions has appointed a new programme manager.

Engineering company Forth has welcomed Chris Downham to its senior management team.

Chris, 28, has recently worked on completing the firm’s proof of concept of FSWBot, a world-first friction stir welding robotic crawler to carry out internal repairs and refurbishments to oil pipelines, and will concentrate on developing various other innovations which includes constructing a robot to inspect wind turbine blades.

A Durham University graduate, Chris joins the company after working with water and wastewater company United Utilities for four years in roles including production manager and catchment manager.

Chris said: “I’m thrilled to be working for an enterprise which makes such a huge impact globally. This is a company which is on the cutting edge of dealing with real world solutions, and Forth has the ability to react to and affect change.

“I am enjoying being part of a new industry and learning new skills. I can also use the skills I have gained over the years to help develop the team here.

“It’s a new challenge for me and one I am very excited about. I want to help the team grow and build on the outstanding work carried out here every day.”

Chris, a keen rugby player and former coach at Kendal Rugby Club, has gained a leadership and management diploma in addition to his degree in natural sciences from Durham University.

Mark Telford, the managing director of Forth, said: “We are delighted to welcome Chris to the team and we are excited to see how he can help drive the company forward.

“Chris brings with him a number of management and leadership qualities, and he is a great fit for Forth.

“We are happy to support Chris as he develops all the projects, and we look forward to him enjoying a long and successful career here with Forth.”