ASNT Newsroom

(Columbus, Ohio) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is pleased to announce the 2026–2027 cohort of its RISE Leadership Program, welcoming 20 participants from 11 countries to the year-long leadership development experience for early-career nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals. 

Built on the FranklinCovey leadership framework, RISE prepares participants with 10 or fewer years of professional experience to grow as leaders within their organizations and the broader NDT community. The program combines leadership development, professional skills training, and organizational insight into ASNT and the NDT industry through biweekly online sessions, applied practice, and in-person engagement at ASNT events. 

“The future of our profession depends on developing strong technical leaders, not just strong technical skills. RISE gives emerging professionals the opportunity to grow as leaders while building lasting connections across the NDT community,” said Toni Kervina, CAE, ASNT Director of Content and Learning. 

Over the course of the program, participants will complete more than 60 hours of leadership training, attend two ASNT Annual Conferences, and present a capstone project at the ASNT Annual Conference. Following the program, participants commit to maintaining ASNT membership and volunteering with the Society for three years, many of whom go on to serve on ASNT councils.  

2026–2027 RISE Leadership Program Cohort 

• Kunle Adeyemo, Michigan State University, United States 

• Sabir Beroual, PhD, Center for Research in Mechanics, Algeria 

• Yedekpa Noel Benito Bly, Stract Offshore, Cote D’Ivoire 

• Gerardo Barrera Ceron, CIAC, Mexico 

• Peter Iranse, CAGL Global Company Limited, Nigeria 

• Gretchen Marsden, Tulsa Inspection Resources, LLC, United States 

• Ahmed Mohamed, Petrojet Co., Egypt 

• Roman Moore, Mistras, United States 

• Vijay Nakrani, Bhavy Industrial Testing Services, Surat, India 

• Olumide Odeyemi, University of Lagos, Canada 

• Jaiden Patton, Baja SAE, United States 

• Stephanie Pippin, GE Aerospace, United States 

• Mohammed Sbai, GE Aerospace, United States 

• Margaret Sprung, Marathon Petroleum, United States 

• Harshavarthan Venkatesh, Recent Graduate, Universiti Teknologi Petronas (UTP), India 

• Liu Yang, PhD, Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology, Hong Kong 

• Afshin Yousefi, De Havilland Aircraft of Canada, Canada 

• Mubarak Yousif AbdElkarim, Sudanese Thermal Power Generation Co., Sudan 

• Harsh Zala, AsInt, India 

• Tyler Zeman, Seacast, United States 

"Developing the next generation of leaders is essential to the continued strength of our profession. RISE reflects ASNT's commitment to equipping emerging leaders with the skills, relationships, and perspective they'll need to guide NDT into the future,” said Neal Couture, FASAE, CAE, ASNT CEO. 

For more information about the RISE Leadership Program, including how to apply for future cohorts, visit asnt.org/education/rise-leadership-program. 

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, Washington, D.C. 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, Ohio) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and the IEEE Instrumentation & Measurement Society (IMS) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) establishing a collaborative framework to advance nondestructive testing (NDT) and measurement science, expand access to technical education, and strengthen ties between academic researchers and industry practitioners. IMS technical committee, TC-01 Nondestructive Evaluation and Industrial Inspection (NDT&II), will be the primary point of contact for providing coordination.

The partnership will begin with a pilot series of jointly promoted technical webinars that bring together ASNT's deep industry expertise with IMS's academic and research strengths. The webinars are designed to be accessible to both organizations' members, evaluate the effectiveness of joint programming, and lay the groundwork for future collaboration in areas such as research dissemination, standards awareness, and workforce development.

“The NDT industry depends on strong connections between research and practice,” said Neal Couture, FASAE, CAE, ASNT CEO. “This collaboration with IEEE IMS gives our members direct access to leading measurement science research, while giving IMS's academic community a clearer view into how that research translates into real-world inspection and testing applications. It's a natural fit for two organizations that share a commitment to advancing the science behind safer, more reliable systems.”

Under the agreement, a Joint Coordination Group made up of representatives from both organizations will plan webinar topics and schedules, identify presenters from industry and academia, and evaluate outcomes to guide future initiatives. ASNT will provide webinar production infrastructure and industry-focused presenters and topics, while IMS will contribute academic and research-focused speakers, infrastructure to generate international technical standards, and help contextualize technical content for industry relevance.

“This is natural and a long overdue collaboration between two entities dedicated to all things NDT," said IEEE IMS President Shervin Shirmohammadi, PhD. “This relationship is expected to promote further engagement among professional, technical, research, and academic members of both organizations.”

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, Washington, DC, and Chennai, India. 

About IEEE 
IEEE is the world’s largest technical professional organization and a public charity dedicated to advancing technology for the benefit of humanity. IEEE and its members inspire a global community through its highly cited publications, conferences, technology standards, and professional and educational activities.

About IEEE Instrumentation and Measurement Society (IMS)
The IEEE Instrumentation & Measurement Society is dedicated to the development and use of electrical and electronic instruments and equipment to measure, monitor, and/or record physical phenomena. With scientific, literary, and educational concerns, the Society seeks to promote a high level of technical excellence by encouraging close cooperation and exchange of information among its members.

Media Contact:
Garra Liming
Director, Public Relations & Government Affairs
The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)
614-274-6003; govrelations@asnt.org

(Columbus, Ohio) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) announced a strategic collaboration with IRISS Inc. to offer comprehensive infrared testing (IR) training courses. 

This partnership brings IRISS’s globally recognized S.M.A.R.T. Training programs to the ASNT community, providing education that aligns with critical industry standards, including ASNT SNT-TC-1A, ANSI/ASNT CP-105, and ANSI/ASNT CP-189 recommended practices. 

Available through ASNT’s eLearning portal, the courses comprise Level I, II, and III IR, with a curriculum that bridges the gap between thermal physics and practical, real-world applications. These courses are designed to help reliability teams implement thermal predictive maintenance, detect critical mechanical and electrical temperature anomalies before failure, and improve overall operational safety. 

"As mandatory requirements for infrared thermography continue to increase the volume of IR work, it is essential that the NDT workforce has access to the quality training available," said Toni Kervina, CAE, ASNT Director of Content and Learning. "Collaborating with IRISS ensures that NDT industry professionals are equipped with the specialized knowledge required to enhance reliability, reduce operational downtime, and elevate safety across the globe." 

These courses are eligible for NETA Continuing Technical Development Credits (CTDs) and contact hours through ASNT. The courses are designed for technicians and managers of all experience levels who are committed to mastering thermal imaging and ultrasound inspection technologies. 

“ASNT has long been a cornerstone organization for the nondestructive testing community,” said Josh Robinson of IRISS. “By combining ASNT’s global reach with IRISS’s practical training approach, we’re creating a powerful pathway for technicians and reliability professionals to deepen their expertise in infrared inspection and predictive maintenance.” 

To explore the full catalog of ASNT and IRISS collaborative courses and begin your certification journey, visit Infrared Training Courses. 

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, Washington, DC, and Chennai, India. 

About IRISS 

IRISS is a global leader in industrial-grade electrical safety and condition monitoring solutions. Through its S.M.A.R.T. Training programs, IRISS sets the gold standard in professional development for electrical maintenance, equipping professionals with the practical expertise needed to create safer, more efficient workplaces. 

Media Contact: 

Garra Liming 

Director, Public Relations & Government Affairs 

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) 

614-274-6003; gliming@asnt.org 

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing Inc. (ASNT) is pleased to announce the appointment of the inaugural members of its Global Advisory Board, a new advisory body established to provide structured international insight and strategic guidance to the ASNT Board of Directors.

Approved by the ASNT Board of Directors in October 2025, the Global Advisory Board was created to strengthen how ASNT listens, learns, and leads globally as the nondestructive testing (NDT) profession continues to evolve in an increasingly interconnected world.

The inaugural Global Advisory Board includes leaders representing North America, Latin America, Europe, South Asia, and East Asia & Pacific, bringing broad geographic diversity and deep expertise across industry, certification, research, standards, technology, and workforce development.

“The Global Advisory Board represents an important milestone for ASNT,” said Jason Riggs, ASNT President. “The expertise and diverse perspectives of these distinguished professionals will help us better understand regional opportunities and challenges while strengthening our ability to serve the worldwide NDT community.”

Inaugural Global Advisory Board Members

• Jorge Amsler, CEO, BRUKE SA (Brazil)

• Damien Clarke, Director of Strategic Development, IRISNDT

• Conor Douglas, Inspection Engineer, BP LLC

• Emilio Gonzalez, President, Spanish Association for Non-Destructive Testing (AEND)

• Arturo Hernandez, Managing Director, INTERINSPECT S.A.C. (Peru)

• Anura Jayatilaka, Founder and Managing Director, mat JN Industrial Solutions (Sri Lanka)

• Jingyan Ji, Executive Director, Chinese Society for Nondestructive Testing

• Joseph Krynicki, Principal NDE Engineer, ExxonMobil

• Vivek Ligade, Global Quality Leader, Emerson Automation Solutions (India)

• Jose Luis Ponce Lopez, General Director, JP Inspecciones (Mexico)

• David Pope, CARICOM Regional Director, Global Compliance Service

• Carlos Serrano, Director of Sales, LATAM, Eddyfi Technologies

• Steven Snyder, Supplier Manufacturing Engineering Lead – SME, Westinghouse Electric Co.

• Johannes Vrana, CEO, Vrana GmbH

Members have been appointed to two-year terms beginning 1 July 2026, and ending 30 June 2028.

The Global Advisory Board will focus on high-level, forward-looking issues affecting the global NDT community, including standards, certification systems, technology adoption, workforce development, training, partnerships, and international growth opportunities. Members will also serve as ASNT ambassadors at international conferences, professional meetings, and society engagements.

“The challenges and opportunities facing the NDT profession increasingly transcend national borders,” said Neal Couture, ASNT CEO. “By bringing together respected leaders from around the world, the Global Advisory Board will help ensure ASNT remains informed by diverse perspectives as we develop programs, partnerships, and strategies that benefit professionals worldwide.”

While referred to as a board, the Global Advisory Board is advisory in nature and does not have governance or fiduciary responsibilities. Its purpose is to serve as a strategic sounding board for the ASNT Board of Directors, offering regional insight, perspective, and recommendations grounded in international experience.

The Global Advisory Board will hold a kickoff meeting in July 2026 and will meet in person during the ASNT Annual Conference in Columbus, Ohio, in October 2026.

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, Washington, DC, and Chennai, India.

Media Contact: Garra Liming, Director, Public Relations & Government Affairs

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)

(Columbus, Ohio) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is inviting members to get involved in its councils, which provide opportunities to connect with peers, engage with topics relevant to the field, and contribute professional experience and perspective to the broader NDT community. 

“Councils are an important way for members to engage with topics that matter to the profession while building stronger connections across ASNT,” said Neal J. Couture, FASAE, CAE, ASNT CEO. 

ASNT currently offers 30 councils spanning technical disciplines, industry sectors, and professional interests. Council participation allows members to collaborate with others in their areas of interest while supporting the continued advancement of nondestructive testing. 

Participation in ASNT councils requires ASNT membership. Individuals who are not currently members can join ASNT through its free Associate membership to become more involved in the organization. 

“Opening council participation strengthens the value of ASNT membership by expanding opportunities for meaningful engagement, allowing members to connect with peers, contribute their expertise, and play a more active role in shaping the Society” said Pat White, ASNT Membership and Engagement Director. 

NDT professionals interested in participating are encouraged to explore the available councils and select the groups that align with their professional interests. 

For more information about ASNT councils, visit asnt.org/about/councils. To learn more about ASNT membership, visit asnt.org/membership. 

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, 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

(Washington, DC) — The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) brought more than 60 industry professionals to Capitol Hill this month, generating over 150 meetings with congressional offices and federal agencies and elevating the role of nondestructive testing (NDT) in national workforce and infrastructure discussions.

The 2^nd annual Day on the Hill marked a significant increase in participation and a shift in engagement. Conversations moved beyond introducing NDT to focused discussions on how it can be integrated into workforce programs, infrastructure policy, and federal initiatives.

“We are seeing a clear shift in how policymakers engage with our industry,” said Neal Couture, CEO of ASNT. “These are no longer introductory conversations. There is real interest in how NDT can support workforce development, strengthen infrastructure, and improve public safety.”

Meetings with lawmakers and staff focused heavily on workforce challenges, including the need to expand apprenticeship pathways, improve awareness of NDT careers, and support veterans transitioning into civilian roles. Congressional offices also sought input on how NDT can be incorporated into existing and emerging legislation, signaling growing recognition of its role across multiple sectors.

ASNT also met with key federal agencies, including the U. Department of Labor and the US Department of Transportation, to discuss workforce readiness and regulatory alignment. Conversations with the Department of Labor highlighted shared priorities around expanding registered apprenticeships and scaling earn-while-you-learn models. ASNT is currently developing a national NDT apprenticeship program aimed at increasing access to training and strengthening the workforce pipeline.

In parallel, discussions with regulatory agencies emphasized the importance of aligning industry standards with federal frameworks to maintain safety, consistency, and workforce quality across critical infrastructure systems.

“Employers are recognizing the importance of being part of these conversations,” said Garra Liming, Director of Public Relations and Government Affairs at ASNT. “Their participation helps ensure policymakers hear directly from the industry and better understand both the challenges and opportunities facing the NDT workforce.”

As part of its advocacy efforts, ASNT supported multiple pieces of legislation focused on workforce development and industry growth, submitting formal letters and engaging directly with congressional offices. These efforts increased NDT's visibility in policy discussions and public communications.

With momentum building, ASNT will continue expanding its advocacy efforts through sustained engagement on Capitol Hill, deeper collaboration with federal agencies, and the development of a national NDT apprenticeship program to support long-term workforce growth.

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, 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 has released an Economic Impact of NDT Report 2025, delivering a comprehensive, data-driven analysis on the scale, reach, and economic value of the nondestructive testing (NDT) industry.

The report provides a deep examination of the US NDT market across equipment, services, and software, while analyzing industry drivers, constraints, and emerging trends. It also highlights the rapid evolution of advanced inspection methods, digital tools, and data-driven technologies that are transforming how NDT is performed and how value is delivered.

“NDT professionals have long understood the essential role the industry plays in protecting infrastructure, advancing innovation, and ensuring public safety. This report quantifies that impact and emphasizes why continued investment in workforce development, education, and research is critical, said Heather Cowles, Executive Director of the ASNT Foundation.

The Economic Impact of NDT Report 2025 details the direct economic contributions of the NDT industry and the significant cost savings it generates by preventing failures, extending asset life, and reducing operational risk. These benefits support infrastructure, transportation systems, energy production, and manufacturing operations nationwide.

The findings reinforce a central conclusion: the strength and sustainability of the NDT industry depend on strategic, long-term investment in people, research, and education.

The release of the report comes at a pivotal moment as ASNT prepares for its upcoming Hill Day on April 15 in Washington, D.C. During Hill Day, ASNT members and staff will meet with members of Congress, congressional committees, federal agencies, and staff to share real-world industry expertise and key findings from the report.

These conversations aim to elevate awareness of NDT’s role in infrastructure protection, research advancement, and workforce development while advocating for solutions to workforce shortages and increased federal investment in education and innovation.

The report further reinforces the mission of the ASNT Foundation to strengthen the profession through scholarships, STEM outreach, workforce initiatives, and support for education and research. Each scholarship awarded and every student introduced to NDT helps build the talent pipeline the industry depends on.

As the Economic Impact of NDT Report 2025 makes clear, NDT delivers measurable economic value and safeguards critical systems every day. Sustaining that impact requires continued commitment from industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders.

Learn more about the report by visiting the ASNT Foundation's Industry Research page.

For more information about the ASNT Foundation and its initiatives, please contact the Foundation at foundation@asnt.org.

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 

hcowles@asnt.org

(Columbus, Ohio) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) announced the formation of a new Global Advisory Board (GAB). Approved by the ASNT Board of Directors, the GAB is designed to provide structured international insight and strategic guidance to support the evolving needs of the global NDT community.

As ASNT's membership, certifications, and partnerships continue to expand worldwide, the Society recognized the need for a formalized mechanism to incorporate diverse regional perspectives into its long-term strategy. The new advisory body will address high-level, forward-looking issues, including global trends in standards, technology adoption, and workforce development.

“The Global Advisory Board was established to provide a consistent, formalized mechanism for international expertise to inform Board-level discussions and long-term strategy,” said Neal J. Couture, FASAE, CAE, ASNT CEO. “By formalizing international advisory input, ASNT can strengthen its decision-making, enhance global engagement, and better serve the evolving needs of our NDT community.”

While the GAB does not hold governance or fiduciary responsibilities, it will serve as a critical strategic sounding board. Its members will advise the ASNT Board on regional challenges, offer guidance on international growth opportunities, and serve as Society ambassadors at global industry events.

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, Washington, DC, and Chennai, India.

Media Contact:

Garra Liming

Director, Public Relations & Government Affairs

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT)

614-274-6003; gliming@asnt.org

(Columbus, Ohio) More than 150 industry leaders and technical experts from the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), ASTM International, and the American Welding Society (AWS) gathered at AWS headquarters in Miami, Florida, for the first-ever NDT Week 2026. Held 18–23 January, the four-day collaborative event focused on a singular, driving theme: “Together, We Set the Standard.”

As the nondestructive testing (NDT) industry undergoes rapid evolution, this historic gathering brought together the three premier standards organizations. The goal was to navigate critical topics such as artificial intelligence (AI), shifting workforce needs, and the future trajectory of inspection technologies.

“Innovation in our industry doesn't stand still, and neither can standards and certification,” said Neal Couture, FASAE, CAE, ASNT Chief Executive Officer. “By working together, the NDT community ensures that standards and certification remain relevant, credible, and aligned with how the work is evolving in the field. This collaboration allows us to keep pace with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.”

At NDT Week 2026, the future of NDT wasn’t just discussed; it was shaped. Committees worked deeply on key action items including method and program alignment, supporting exam development, and long-term strategy.

A major focus of the week was the integration of Artificial Intelligence into established standards.

“These are the discussions that move the industry forward,” said Paul Lang, ASNT Chief Global Strategy Officer. “We need to accelerate standardizing this fast-moving technology to create a solid regulatory framework companies can lean on. Investing in our people means staying aligned with where the industry is headed and how we can keep raising the bar.”

The week was anchored by keynote sessions from two thought leaders exploring the impact of AI on asset integrity and inspection:

• Lennart Schulenburg, CEO of VisiConsult X-ray Systems & Solutions, delivered the keynote “AI in NDT – Chance or Disruption?” Schulenburg addressed how standards may begin as theory but quickly become the practical foundation of the industry, especially as AI and digital inspection continue to evolve.

• Kelly P. Caillier, MBA, CRE, Founder & CEO of KDC Reliability, presented “Overcoming Uncertainty: Augmenting Asset Integrity Inspection Strategies and Insights with Artificial Intelligence.” With 29 years of leadership experience and a patent-pending neural network (RM-23), Caillier shared insights on calculating effectiveness in asset integrity systems.

The collaboration between ASNT, ASTM, and AWS at NDT Week 2026 reinforces a unified commitment to building the expertise that keeps quality and consistency front and center for the global NDT community.

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, Washington, DC, and Chennai, India. 

Media Contact: 

Garra Liming 

Director, Public Relations & Government Affairs 

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) 

614-274-6003; gliming@asnt.org

(Columbus, Ohio) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) recently convened senior executives from across the nondestructive testing (NDT) ecosystem for its inaugural ASNT Thought Leaders Summit, held in Miami, Florida. The invite-only gathering brought together leaders from organizations that use and supply NDT products and services for candid discussions on workforce disruption, artificial intelligence, and economic uncertainty.

Designed as a facilitated executive convening rather than a traditional technical conference, the Summit focused on peer-level dialogue and strategic insight. Discussions were conducted under Chatham House Rules, creating a trusted, non-competitive environment that encouraged open exchange on shared challenges facing the industry.

“The goal was not to arrive at immediate solutions, but to create space for meaningful conversation among leaders navigating these issues in real time,” said Neal Couture, CEO of ASNT. “The discussions reinforced how critical it is to stay ahead of workforce sustainability concerns, emerging technologies, and broader economic pressures impacting NDT.”

Key themes included the effects of demographic shifts and workforce availability on inspection capacity and infrastructure integrity, the evolving role of artificial intelligence in inspection reliability and decision-making, and how economic volatility is influencing capital investment and long-term planning.

Participants noted the value of engaging with peers outside of traditional commercial settings and highlighted ASNT’s role as a neutral convener for industry-wide executive dialogue.

The Thought Leaders Summit represents a new engagement model for ASNT, complementing its established leadership in certification, standards, and technical education. ASNT plans to build on insights from the inaugural Summit as it continues to expand executive engagement and thought leadership initiatives in support of advancing the science and practice of nondestructive testing.

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, Washington, DC, and Chennai, India. 

Media Contact: 

Garra Liming 

Director, Public Relations & Government Affairs 

The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) 

614-274-6003; gliming@asnt.org