ASNT Applauds House Passage of Provision Expanding 529 Plan Eligibility to Include Certification and Credentialing Programs

(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to build a better future through hands-on, skills-based training without being sidelined by financial barriers or outdated definitions of education.”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.

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