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 ASNT Foundation has launched a significant research initiative to measure and communicate the economic value of nondestructive testing (NDT) across U.S. industries. In partnership with global research firm Frost & Sullivan, the study will assess NDT’s role in job creation, cost savings, risk mitigation, and workforce needs in sectors such as aerospace, energy, manufacturing, construction, and transportation.
“By putting hard data behind NDT’s impact, we can show its vital role in safety, innovation, and workforce growth,” said Heather Cowles, Executive Director of the ASNT Foundation. “This study will provide industry leaders, educators, and policymakers with the insights they need to prepare for the future.”
“As I engage with policymakers on Capitol Hill, having credible, data-backed research is essential,” said Garra Liming, Director of Public Relations and Government Affairs at The American Society for Nondestructive Testing. “This study will give us the tools to demonstrate the value of NDT in concrete terms while supporting our advocacy efforts, shaping workforce policy discussions, and ensuring nondestructive testing receives the recognition it deserves.”
This research will make a meaningful impact on workforce development, funding, and policy decisions that shape the NDT industry in the U.S. The ASNT Foundation views this project as a critical step in elevating awareness of the NDT industry and ensuring the industry’s contributions in the U.S. are fully recognized. The findings will offer valuable insights to guide workforce initiatives, industry advocacy, and long-term strategic planning by providing the first comprehensive picture of NDT's economic and workforce impact. A final report will be released in early 2026.
About the ASNT Foundation
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.
Media Contact:
Heather Cowles
ASNT Foundation Executive Director
(Columbus, OH) The ASNT Foundation has been awarded a STEM Innovation Grant from Battelle, which recently announced a $1.2 million investment in Central Ohio nonprofit organizations dedicated to STEM education.
The grant will help the Foundation expand educational programs in nondestructive testing (NDT), a field essential to the safety and reliability of infrastructure, energy systems, aerospace, manufacturing, and more. This pilot initiative will distribute 500 “Ultrasound in a Box” kits to after-school and weekend clubs, giving middle school students, particularly first-generation and underserved learners, an early introduction to NDT and its in-demand career opportunities.
“We are honored to be among the organizations recognized by Battelle’s generous investment in STEM,” said Heather Cowles, Executive Director of the ASNT Foundation. “This support strengthens our ability to expand our outreach and education opportunities, ensuring the next generation of professionals is equipped to meet the growing demand for NDT in industries vital to public safety and innovation.”
The ASNT Foundation provides scholarships, faculty grants, and fellowships, and supports workforce initiatives to advance NDT education and career pathways. Recent milestones include launching US Department of Labor-approved national apprenticeship guidelines and funding faculty-led projects to develop new curricula to broaden access to NDT education.
“This grant provides the resources to expand our reach, introducing students and educators to a critical and in-demand career pathway in NDT,” said Alex Rios, Fundraising Manager at the ASNT Foundation. “It’s an investment in the future of a highly skilled NDT workforce essential to keeping our world safe.”
For more details on Battelle’s $1.2 million investment across Central Ohio STEM initiatives, see the full release on Battelle’s recent STEM funding.
About the ASNT Foundation
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.
Media Contact:
Heather Cowles
ASNT Foundation Executive Director
