Fern Simpson

Lead Hydrogeologist

Fern works with potential clients within the construction industry, undertaking site suitability assessments and providing guidance on the use of Fortistone® IBA Aggregate.

“Prior to joining Fortis, I was working oversees in copper/cobalt mines and was based in both the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Australia, working both open pit and underground.  In February 2020, I joined Fortis because I was looking for a position where I could be based permanently within the UK.

Fortis takes our waste and transforms it into a useful secondary aggregate, and after a career in mining, this innovative recycling really interested me. I also liked that the business was small medium-sized and had a friendly atmosphere.  I work closely with the sales team and potential clients to provide advice on the Fortistone® use and since joining, I have completed an MSc in Hydrogeology, graduating in November 2023 with a Distinction.

There are so many benefits of using a recycled aggregate instead of primary material, including all the fuel, possible blasting, environmental damage and cost associated with extracting raw materials.  The thing I like most about the industry is that I feel like I am doing some good in encouraging further recycling from municipal waste, through both the reuse of metal and the creation of IBA Aggregate.”