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, Ohio -- The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Foundation is proud to announce the approval of the new national guideline standards for a Nondestructive Testing Technician apprenticeship. These guideline standards have been developed in collaboration with industry experts and the U.S. Department of Labor (USDOL) to ensure comprehensive training and rich on-the-job training (OJT) opportunities for aspiring level II NDT learners. These guidelines provide a framework for developing and implementing effective apprenticeship programs that meet the evolving needs of the NDT industry.
The newly approved standards are designed to ensure apprentices acquire critical skills, knowledge, and behaviors through structured training and on-the-job learning. With this approval, the guidelines align with national quality and regulatory standards, making them an essential tool for fostering workforce development and securing federal funding and industry support.
Heather Cowles, Executive Director of the ASNT Foundation said " This approval marks one more step the ASNT Foundation is taking to support the NDT workforce. By developing resources and models like this, we can assist our partners with their training and development needs. This brings us closer to building a robust pipeline of NDT professionals prepared to meet the workforce of the future."
The ASNT Foundation is committed to educating employers, educators, and job seekers about the benefits of apprenticeships. These efforts kicked off during National Apprenticeship Week (November 17-23, 2024) with a series of webinars. These webinars highlight how the approved guidelines can streamline training programs, foster collaboration among stakeholders, and address workforce gaps identified in the Foundation’s recent industry readiness report.
Beonica Rutherford, Workforce Development Manager, added " We are excited to provide tools that enable schools and employers to build strong partnerships to implement structured, impactful apprenticeship programs. Apprenticeships will allow NDT students and job seekers the opportunity to earn and learn, reducing barriers to enter into the industry."
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 more information on the webinars, visit https://foundation.asnt.org or contact Beonica Rutherford at brutherford@asnt.org . For press inquiries, please email hcowles@asnt.org
(Columbus, OH) The ASNT Foundation is pleased to announce the appointment of four experienced professionals to its Board of Trustees. Effective this month these trustees began to serve and bring a wealth of information and expertise to the Foundation. The existing trustees will continue to serve alongside the new appointees for a total of fourteen Board of Trustees.
Timothy Bieri is the Vice President of Corrosion Engineering at bp, with over 25 years of experience in mechanical engineering and integrity management. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Franklin University in Ohio and a master’s degree from the University of Alaska. Bieri is a registered Professional Engineer and a certified AMPP Internal Corrosion Specialist.
Matt Gormley is the Director of Global Sales for Pinnacle X-Ray Solutions LLC. He has 17 years of experience at Pratt & Whitney and holds a bachelor’s degree from Kettering University and two master’s degrees from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Gormley is a certified Six Sigma Black Belt and serves on the ASNT Workforce Development Working Group.
Eric Lindgren is the NDE Technology Lead at the Air Force Research Laboratory. With over 30 years in NDE research and development, he holds a B.S., M.S., and Ph.D. in Materials Science and Engineering from Johns Hopkins University. Lindgren is a Fellow of both the Air Force Research Laboratory and ASNT.
Karen Smith is the President of the Industrial Division at Evident Scientific. She has extensive experience in ultrasound instrumentation and test and measurement technology. Smith holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Union College and an MBA from Clark University.
"The ASNT Foundation is thrilled to welcome these four outstanding individuals to our Board of Trustees," said Heather Cowles, Executive Director of the ASNT Foundation. "Their combined expertise and dedication to the field of nondestructive testing will be invaluable as we continue to advance our mission and impact."
John Iman, President of the ASNT Foundation, added, "The diverse backgrounds and experiences of our new trustees will bring fresh perspectives and strengthen our ability to support the NDT community. We look forward to their contributions and leadership in the coming year."
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.
For press inquiries, please email hcowles@asnt.org.
(Columbus, OH) The ASNT Foundation is pleased to announce the recipients of the Student Travel Grant. The grant supports early career accomplishments in nondestructive testing/evaluation (NDT/E) research by providing travel support for students to attend the ASNT Research Symposium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 24-28 June.
"The ASNT Foundation's Student Travel Grant opens doors to a world of opportunity, empowering young minds in NDT/E to showcase their early career accomplishments on a global stage, “said Heather Cowles, CAE, CVA, ASNT Foundation Executive Director. “It's not just about attending a symposium; it's also about igniting a passion for innovation, fostering collaboration, and empowering the next generation of NDT/E professionals."
With the support of the ASNT Foundation, the students gain a platform to present their research in front of a global audience, network with other researchers from industry and academia, and learn about breakthroughs in the NDT/E field from fellow researchers.
The 2024 ASNT Foundation Student Travel Grant winners are:
Farzaneh Ahmadi – Iowa State University
Pedram Bazrafshan – Drexel University
Merrill Dennison – Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Ali Ghadimzadeh – Drexel University
Ali Zare Hosseinzadeh – University of California, San Diego
Xuhui Huang – Michigan State University
Nihar Masurkar – Arizona State University
Aaron McCarville – Iowa State University
Zebadiah Miles – Michigan State University
Trent Moritz – Iowa State University
Farid Nazari – Iowa State University
Prateek Neupane – Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Oluwatimilehin Oluwajire – North Carolina State University
Adwoa Kyeiwaa Owusu – University of Tennessee
Lei Peng – Michigan State University
Asmi Rana – Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Himal Sapkota – Southern Illinois University Carbondale
Subal Sharma – Michigan State University
Michail Skiadopoulos – Pennsylvania State University
Logan M. Wilcox – Missouri University of Science and Technology
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.
For press inquiries, please email hcowles@asnt.org.
(Columbus, OH) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is proud to introduce ASNT Connect, an online community for ASNT members, certificate holders, and customers to connect, collaborate, and share knowledge within the nondestructive testing (NDT) industry.
ASNT Connect will serve as a comprehensive platform designed to facilitate meaningful interactions, foster community engagement, and provide a space for professionals to seek answers, share expertise, and build valuable connections.
"We are thrilled to introduce ASNT Connect as a dynamic platform that brings together the diverse expertise and insights of our members and certificate holders. This online community will serve as a hub for collaboration, innovation, and knowledge-sharing within the NDT community."
Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Chief Executive Officer.
Specialized Communities: ASNT Connect will debut with five members-only communities tailored to specific interests within the NDT community:
Research in NDT - catering to members interested in research
Section Leaders - designed for members actively leading ASNT sections
Technical - a hub for ASNT members to discuss NDT methods, techniques, and technologies
IDEA - dedicated to conversations around inclusion, diversity, equity, and accessibility
NDT Education - created for students and educators
An Open Community will be available to the public and is for anyone interested in ASNT or the NDT community at large. Discussions within this community are expected to be wide-ranging, from general information about NDT, how to get into the field, how to become certified, and more.
ASNT Connect is poised to be an invaluable resource for NDT professionals, offering a dynamic space to connect with like-minded individuals, stay informed about industry trends, and participate in discussions that shape the future of NDT.
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, and Chennai, India.
(Columbus, OH) - The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) participated in the American Society for Association Executives (ASAE): The Center for Association Leadership Legislative Fly-In held on 5-6 March 2024 in Washington D.C. The event offered an opportunity to engage with lawmakers on Capitol Hill and advocate for the passage of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act.
Garra Liming, ASNT Director of Marketing and Communication, represented ASNT at a meeting with congressmen and congresswomen to discuss the proposed legislation. The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act aims to create more opportunities for Americans to pursue credential programs offered by professional societies and associations.
“ASNT supports the consideration, passage, and implementation of this legislation,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Executive Director. “If enacted, it would allow young people to use their 529 plans to pay for tuition, exam, and supply costs associated with career technical education, such as NDE/NDT.”
Liming met with several lawmakers on Capitol Hill to discuss the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act and share information on the importance of nondestructive testing (NDT).
"Participating in the ASAE legislative fly-in was an invaluable experience," said Liming. "It provided an opportunity to advocate on behalf of ASNT and the NDT industry by engaging directly with lawmakers to let them know about the legislation’s impact on workforce development. The Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow's Workforce Act has the potential to open doors for countless students who want to use their 529 savings to make workforce training more affordable and accessible."
These advocacy efforts align with ASNT's commitment to support workforce development initiatives and foster professional growth within the industry. Through active engagement in legislative advocacy, ASNT continues to champion policies that empower NDT professionals and drive economic prosperity and independence.
About ASNT
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, and Chennai, India.
For press inquiries, please email gliming@asnt.org.
(Columbus, OH) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) announces the unveiling of its revitalized identity, symbolizing a new era for the organization. With vibrant colors and a sleek, modern logo, ASNT is embracing change to reflect its unwavering dedication to excellence in the nondestructive testing (NDT) industry after more than 80 years of service to the industry and its members.
“This rebranding marks an essential step in ASNT's strategic plan and aligns with the evolution the Society has undergone the past few years,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Chief Executive Officer. “ASNT has a strong and respected legacy around the world, and this new look signifies ASNT's readiness to embrace and lead the industry and our members into the future.”
The revamped logo symbolizes global ambitions, continuous improvement, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. It serves as a testament to the organization's commitment to leading the way for the global NDT industry.
“The new logo is a nod to ASNT's rich history but infused with more contemporary flair,” said Garra Liming, ASNT Director, Marketing and Communication. “The rebranding is an important step in our business strategy because it not only redefines our visual identity but also reaffirms our commitment to pushing boundaries and leading the way in our industry.”
Building upon the strength and recognition of the main logo, ASNT has also introduced new logos for its three subsidiaries— ASNT Certification, ASNT Foundation, and ASNT India—representing distinct facets of the Society. Each subsidiary logo embodies the unique essence of its corresponding segment, reinforcing the brand's presence in evolving markets and dedication to meeting the diverse needs of valued stakeholders.
About ASNT
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, and Chennai, India.
For press inquiries, please email gliming@asnt.org.
(Columbus, OH) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) announces the creation of the ASNT Foundation and the appointment of the board of trustees. As a 501(c)(3) organization, the ASNT Foundation serves as a vehicle for individuals and organizations to give back to the nondestructive testing (NDT) community by supporting its targeted priorities or by creating funds dedicated to fulfilling their specific interests in NDT.
The foundation will leverage resources to nurture future generations of NDT professionals. By engaging in outreach, conducting research, and providing financial support through scholarships and grants, the foundation aims to inspire, recruit, and cultivate a more extensive and skilled workforce for the NDT industry.
“The announcement is the culmination of more than two years of preparation and hard work, and I am pleased to have Heather Cowles, CAE, CVA, serving as executive director of the ASNT Foundation,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Executive Director. “Heather brings years of association management experience and passion for ASNT members and the NDT industry to this position. I am excited to see the ASNT Foundation grow and succeed under Heather’s leadership.”
The foundation’s board of trustees was selected to represent a diverse cross-section of the NDT industry. The officers and members of the board of trustees are:
John Iman, Varex Imaging | NDT Solutions, President
Danny Keck, Vice President
Brad Pence, American Society for Nondestructive Testing, Treasurer
Lisa Brasche, Pratt & Whitney
David Campbell, Campbell Holdings LLC
Martin Graen, AMETEK Power Instruments
Megan McGovern, General Motors
Marybeth Miceli, C.Eng., Miceli Infrastructure Consulting
Jason Riggs, Marmon Rail
Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Executive Director
Heather Cowles, CAE, CVA, ASNT Foundation Executive Director and Secretary of the Board of Trustees
ASNT has provided initial funding and support for the ASNT Foundation. The ASNT Foundation will operate independently of ASNT.
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.
About ASNT
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, and Chennai, India.
For press inquiries, please email hcowles@asnt.org.
The nondestructive testing (NDT) industry, a cornerstone of safety and reliability across various sectors, is facing significant workforce challenges due to retirements and evolving technologies. In response, the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is taking a proactive stance to bolster workforce development. By focusing on education, performance demonstration, certification, industry collaboration, technological integration, and diversity, ASNT can empower the industry with a skilled and adaptable workforce.
While the proactive measures outlined in this position paper offer a promising path forward for ASNT to address workforce development needs, it is essential to recognize the inherent challenges associated with tackling these issues. Understanding and overcoming these challenges will be instrumental in the successful implementation of the strategies proposed.
Rapid Technological Advancements: Keeping pace with rapid advancements in technology, including the integration of artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced imaging techniques requires continuous updates to training programs.
Industry Fragmentation: As ASNT serves a diverse range of sectors’ unique needs, we must balance the need for standardization in training, qualification, and certification processes.
Resistance to Change: ASNT must overcome skepticism about adopting new technologies and educational methods through communication and demonstration of the benefits of changes.
Retention of Experienced Professionals: Encouraging experienced professionals to stay engaged is vital to pass on their institutional knowledge and expertise to the younger generation.
Limited Awareness and Outreach: The NDT industry's relative obscurity hinders talent attraction.
Resource Allocation: Careful budgeting is required for proper allocation of resources for workforce development amid other organizational priorities.
Global Variability: The global NDT industry's diverse regulations, standards, and practices require ASNT to account for these variations in its workforce development efforts for broad applicability and effectiveness.
A crucial shift in perspective within the NDT industry involves recognizing the significance of addressing workforce development proactively, rather than solely focusing on current workforce issues. This shift brings numerous benefits:
Future-Proofing the Industry: Anticipating and adapting to evolving technology, regulations, and market demands ensures industry relevance.
Nurturing Innovation: A proactive approach encourages the integration of new technologies and methodologies that enhance efficiency, accuracy, and safety in testing processes.
Attracting New Talent: Enhance the industry's appeal to new, innovative professionals by showcasing NDT as a dynamic, forward-looking field with diverse opportunities for growth and specialization.
Minimizing Workforce Shortages: A proactive workforce strategy provides a steady pipeline of skilled professionals, mitigating shortages.
Enhancing Industry Reputation: A well-trained, diverse workforce that is committed to quality, safety, and professionalism improves industry reputation.
Empowering Professionals for Performance: Equipping NDT professionals with relevant and adaptable skills ensures that they are positioned to provide value to employers and clients well into the future.
Contributing to Industry Leadership: ASNT's leadership in setting standards, fostering collaboration, and introducing innovative educational approaches shapes the industry's future.
ASNT serves various stakeholders within the NDT industry, each benefiting from proactive workforce development:
NDT Professionals: Equipped with skills, knowledge, and certification, they remain competitive and valuable contributors.
Employers and NDT Companies: Benefit from a skilled workforce to innovate, enhance their service offerings, and maintain a competitive edge in the market.
Industry Organizations and Associations: Enhances credibility and influence in shaping industry direction.
Academic Institutions: Aligning with industry needs enhances the reputation of institutions offering NDT programs and attracts more students.
Clients and End Users: Improved service quality, accuracy, and safety enhance decision-making and reduce risks.
Regulatory Bodies and Authorities: Those overseeing safety and quality standards benefit from a proactive workforce to enhance industry compliance and public safety.
Emerging Professionals and Students: Gain access to quality education, mentorship, and clear career pathways.
To address workforce challenges proactively, ASNT adopts the following strategies:
Enhancing Education and Training: Collaborating with academic institutions and industries to update curricula and incorporate emerging technologies. This prepares graduates with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
Standardizing Qualification and Certification: Working toward global standardization to ensure consistent industry standards and career progression pathways.
Fostering Industry Collaboration: Organizing knowledge exchange and networking events to identify emerging trends and solutions.
Embracing Technological Advancements: Integrating emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, automation, and advanced imaging systems into training and certification programs.
Promoting Diversity: Partnering with organizations focused on diversity in STEM fields to encourage underrepresented groups to join the NDT workforce. Diverse perspectives enrich the industry.
Addressing workforce development proactively is essential for the NDT industry's growth and resilience. ASNT's commitment to enhancing education, standardizing qualification, and certification, fostering collaboration, integrating technology, and promoting diversity ensures a dynamic and robust NDT workforce. By embracing innovation, engaging stakeholders, and defining clear career paths, ASNT positions itself as a driving force in shaping the industry's success.
Learn more about how you can get involved in supporting ASNT’s workforce development efforts by attending the workforce development session at the ASNT 2023 Annual Conference or reaching out to our team at foundation@asnt.org.
This article is a condensed version of Proactive Workforce Development in the Nondestructive Testing Industry: A Position Paper on ASNT's Role by ASNT’s Board of Directors. Read the full paper in the October 2023 issue of Materials Evaluation.
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) announces the recipients of two Faculty Grant award recognitions. The award encourages faculty members from engineering or science programs of United States universities and colleges to revise their existing courses or develop new courses to teach nondestructive testing/evaluation (NDT/NDE) by providing a financial grant.
Faculty Grants were awarded to Karen Johnson, PhD, and Esmeralda Vataj, PhD.
Dr. Johnson is an Associate Professor and Program Coordinator in the Aviation Technologies program at Southern Illinois University Carbondale and the Secretary/Treasurer and journal editor of the Aviation Technician Education Council. Dr. Johnson's undergraduate degree is in aviation maintenance technologies, and her graduate degrees are in curriculum and instruction with a focus on learning systems design and technology. Before working in academia, Dr. Johnson was a base mechanic on Bell 206-L1 helicopters for Air Evac Lifeteam, a provider of helicopter air ambulance services.
Dr. Vatajis Director of First Year Physics in the Department of Physics at the New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT). She develops, coordinates, and manages all aspects of the freshman curriculum and has developed and taught undergraduate and graduate courses on NDT. Before joining NJIT, Dr. Vataj worked as a researcher/lecturer at the Institute of Applied Nuclear Physics, University of Tirana (Albania), where she participated in regional and national NDT projects. Dr. Vataj obtained her doctorate in physics from the University of Tirana.
“ASNT is focused on advancing the body of knowledge and practice of NDT,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Executive Director. “These faculty grants support the excellent work of Drs. Johnson and Vataj as they work to advance NDT education by enabling the implementation of innovative NDT courses.”
About ASNT
Serving more than 22 000 members and certificate holders worldwide, ASNT, based in Columbus, Ohio, is the largest technical society for NDT professionals. ASNT certification and standards programs, publications, conferences, education, membership, and professional development programs are the foundation for expanding awareness of advancements in NDT. Governed by a volunteer group of officers and directors, ASNT is organized by councils representing interests relating to certification, engineering, research, education, and section operations.
