The Welding Institute is supporting the reactivation of the UK Forum for Engineering Structural Integrity (FESI)—a not-for-profit, technology-focused organisation dedicated to reducing the risk of engineering failures by advancing understanding of structural integrity across industry and academia.

FESI experienced a significant setback in late 2024 following the sad passing of its key leaders, Peter Flewitt and Roderick Smith, who died within three months of each other. Their deaths left the organisation without a board of directors and prompted a period of reflection on the future of the forum they helped to shape.

Now, FESI is entering a new chapter. A new board of directors has been established, including Paul Woollin, Director of Research and Quality Assurance at TWI, who brings extensive experience in engineering research and standards. Speaking about the appointment, Paul Woollin said:

““We all admired Peter and Rod and want to continue the vital work they undertook through FESI to promote understanding and awareness of the science and technology that underpin structural integrity. This work is essential to ensuring safety and reliability for the benefit of society.””

FESI’s mission continues to be supported by major industrial organisations, leading academic institutions, and public bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive and the National Physical Laboratory. The forum aims to build a strong, collaborative community that brings together voices from engineering, education, and government to share knowledge, raise awareness, and influence standards.

The new FESI board comprises:

• Dr Mayur Jagatia, Group Director of Materials Science and Structural Integrity (MSSI), Amentum
• Dr Yiqiang Wang, In-vessel Engineering Section Leader, UK Atomic Energy Authority
• Professor Michael Fitzpatrick, Lloyd’s Register Foundation Chair of Structural Integrity and Systems Performance, Coventry University
• Paul Woollin, Director of Research and Quality Assurance, TWI

In continuing roles:

• John Sharples, Technical Manager and Chief Technologist (Structural Integrity), Amentum – Chief Technical Advisor
• Brian Daniels, Structural Integrity Consultant, Amentum – Honorary Treasurer
• Jack Beswick, Senior Structural Integrity Engineer, Amentum – Chair of the FESI Student and Early Career Council

FESI has also appointed Amanda Rabbich as its new administrator. Amanda will act as the main point of contact for members and can be reached at amanda@fesi.org.uk.

For more information about FESI and its activities, visit: https://fesi.org.uk