The ASNT Foundation newsroom shares the latest updates, news, and developments from the ASNT Foundation. Discover stories about scholarships, grants, research initiatives, and key moments that support the advancement of education and the nondestructive testing (NDT) profession.
(Columbus, OH) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) celebrates a major legislative milestone with the US House of Representatives advancing a key provision that expands 529 education savings accounts to cover postsecondary credentialing and certification programs. This update—part of the recently passed “One, Big, Beautiful Bill”—broadens the definition of qualified educational expenses, offering greater flexibility for individuals pursuing career-focused education outside the traditional college path.
The inclusion of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act marks a transformative step toward a more inclusive and adaptable workforce development strategy—one that recognizes the value of nontraditional education pathways like certifications in nondestructive testing and other high-skill, high-demand fields.
“This is a win for students, workers, and the future of our industries,” said Neal Couture, ASNT CEO. “By allowing families to use 529 plans to invest in credentialing programs, Congress is not only increasing access to education but also signaling a broader recognition that the workforce of tomorrow depends on more than just four-year college degrees.”
The newly expanded use of 529 savings accounts means aspiring professionals and transitioning workers can use these tax-advantaged funds to pursue meaningful credentials through ASNT and other industry-recognized certification programs. This change aligns with the national workforce trends, where middle-skill jobs dominate and certifications often serve as the key to sustainable, family-supporting careers.
“At ASNT, we see firsthand how industry-recognized certifications can open doors to lucrative and rewarding careers,” said Garra Liming, Director of Public Relations and Government Affairs at ASNT. “Expanding 529 plans to include these programs is smart policy. It means more people will have the chance to build a better future through hands-on, skills-based training without being sidelined by financial barriers or outdated definitions of education.”
With the bill headed to the Senate, ASNT joins the Tomorrow’s Workforce Coalition to urge lawmakers to preserve this crucial provision. Maintaining it in the final legislation will help broaden pathways to skilled careers, support economic mobility, and strengthen industries that rely on certified professionals to ensure safety, quality, and performance.
For more information on ASNT certification programs and how they support workforce readiness, visit www.asnt.org.
ASNT is the association for nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals committed to making the world a safer place. NDT professionals detect irregularities, flaws, and defects in materials, components, and structures that could compromise the safety, reliability, or functionality of an object or structure. Established in 1941, ASNT supports members with certifications, professional development, industry insights, advocacy, events, publications, and networking opportunities and is focused on fostering the growth of future generations of NDT professionals through the ASNT Foundation. Serving more than 22 000 members and certificate holders worldwide, ASNT is the largest technical society for NDT professionals. ASNT is based in Columbus, Ohio, with offices in Houston, Texas, Washington, DC and Chennai, India.
Media Contact:
Garra Liming
Director, Public Relations & Government Affairs
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)
614-274-6003; govrelations@asnt.org
(Columbus, OH) The ASNT Foundation is thrilled to announce its sponsorship of the Student Poster Contest Bursary Prizes at the Pan-American Conference for Nondestructive Testing (PANNDT) 2025, reaffirming its commitment to empowering the next generation of nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals.
The PANNDT 2025 Conference will be held at the Fallsview Casino Resort in Niagara Falls, Ontario (Canada) from 9 – 12 June 2025
As part of its ongoing mission to foster education, engagement, and excellence within the global NDT community, the ASNT Foundation is proud to help provide students with an international platform to showcase their innovative research and passion for NDT.
“The future of NDT lies in the hands of bright, driven students, and we are proud to support them through opportunities like the PANNDT 2025 Student Poster Contest,” said Heather Cowles, Executive Director of the ASNT Foundation. “Through this bursary sponsorship, we hope to inspire and encourage the next generation of leaders who will shape the evolution of our industry.”
In addition to sponsoring the contest, The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and the ASNT Foundation will be exhibiting at PANNDT 2025 and invite attendees to visit them at Booth #57. ASNT Team members will be available to engage with industry professionals, students, and educators alike. Learn more about ASNT products and services and how you can support the ASNT Foundation.
Join us in celebrating the innovation and dedication of emerging NDT talent. See you at PANNDT 2025!
Established in 2022, the ASNT Foundation is the philanthropic arm of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing. As a not-for-profit 501(c)3 charitable organization, we rely on the generosity of our industry partners and individuals who understand the importance of nondestructive testing (NDT) and its role in creating a safer world, to support current and future generations of NDT programs through scholarships, grants, research, and workforce development.
For press inquiries, please email hcowles@asnt.org
