ASNT Newsroom

(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 American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is proud to announce that ASNT Chief Executive Officer Neal J. Couture, FASAE, CAE, has been selected for the American Society of Association Executives (ASAE) prestigious 2024 class of Fellows. This recognition is conferred annually by ASAE to honor exceptional association leaders who have made noteworthy and sustained contributions to their organizations and the association community. 

Couture’s selection as an ASAE Fellow underscores his outstanding leadership and dedication to ASNT and advancing the nondestructive testing (NDT) field. Under his guidance, ASNT has continued to promote excellence in NDT technology, training, and certification, fostering innovation and growth within the industry. Additionally, his unwavering dedication to promoting the association industry and driving progress to champion the next generation of association leaders underscores his commitment to fostering a vibrant, innovative, and inclusive future for the entire association community.  

“I am deeply honored to be recognized as an ASAE Fellow,” said Neal J. Couture. "I am proud to champion the impact and leadership of associations across industries, disciplines, and professions. In collaboration with and in support of ASAE, my ASAE Fellow peers and I strive to create solutions for the most critical issues affecting the association management profession while strongly embracing and championing ASAE’s commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion in the association world." 

The Fellows program is a professional recognition program for individuals who have demonstrated leadership, foresight, engagement, and vision. ASAE Fellows are a group of association professionals recognized for their achievements, innovation, and strategic thinking. They have been acknowledged for their success in actively making a difference in the association community. Their purpose is to give back to the association community while inspiring and developing extraordinary future leaders. 

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 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.

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.     

(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 that it has hired Nealy Wheat, CAE, SPHR, to serve as Chief Financial Officer (CFO). As CFO, Wheat will oversee accounting, investments, and business operations. 

“Nealy’s extensive global association management and financial experience will be a significant asset to ASNT,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Chief Executive Officer. “As a member of the executive leadership team, Nealy will contribute to ASNT’s mission, driving innovation and opportunities for our members and driving efficiencies across the organization as we fuel our next stage of growth.”  

Wheat joins ASNT with more than 20 years of association management experience, spanning statewide trade and professional organizations, international, charitable foundations, and chambers of commerce.  

“I am truly grateful to join this incredible team of association and NDT professionals,” said Wheat. “I look forward to contributing to the continued growth of ASNT and to the advancement of the nondestructive testing field." 

Wheat is a graduate of the University of West Georgia with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting and Management. She earned a Master of Public Administration in Nonprofit Administration from Kennesaw State University. She is a Certified Association Executive (CAE) and Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR).  

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 that it has hired Peter Roy to serve as Director of Business Development. In his new role, Roy will assume the responsibility of formulating, executing, and spearheading a comprehensive business development strategy. 

“I am confident that with Peter’s experience and NDT industry knowledge, he will develop new business opportunities for ASNT to take the Society to the next level,” said Neal J. Couture, ASNT Chief Executive Officer. 

Roy joins ASNT with more than 36 years of nondestructive testing (NDT) sales experience. He is a graduate of Saint Joseph’s College with a Bachelor of Science in Communications. 

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) is proud to announce its collaboration with the Center for Nondestructive Evaluation (CNDE) at Iowa State University (ISU) as a sponsor. This strategic partnership marks a significant milestone in advancing research and development in the field of inspection and sensing technologies.  

"ASNT's sponsorship directly contributes to advancing CNDE's mission objectives, creating a symbiotic relationship that benefits ASNT, CNDE, and the wider nondestructive testing and evaluation (NDT&E) community,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Chief Executive Officer. “This collaboration underscores ASNT's unwavering commitment to propel the field of nondestructive testing forward, showcasing our dedication to champion research, education, and innovation through collaborative partnerships with an esteemed institution such as CNDE." 

CNDE, a dedicated research organization, focuses on both fundamental and applied science, technology, and engineering know-how. The Center plays a crucial role in shaping the future of nondestructive evaluation (NDE) through its mission to be the preeminent national leader in these domains. 

“ASNT and CNDE have long served the NDT&E community,” said Reza Zoughi, PhD, CNDE Director. “ASNT and CNDE have a strong history of collaboration, and I look forward to building upon this history to strengthen the relationship between our organizations further. By becoming a CNDE sponsor, I look forward to working with ASNT to bring about significant benefits for the broader NDT&E industry.” 

By actively promoting, developing, and guiding a national agenda for the future of NDE, ASNT will engage with CNDE through its position serving on CNDE’s Industrial Advisory Board (IAB). The IAB, comprising a diverse array of industrial and governmental organizations, collaborates closely with CNDE scientists, faculty members, engineers, and students. 

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.

In the world of nondestructive testing (NDT), the focus has shifted dramatically over the past two decades. Initially, NDT was primarily concerned with ensuring the quality of newly manufactured components and weldments. However, a seismic shift has occurred, redirecting NDT's attention to maintaining the integrity of assets well beyond their intended lifespan. This shift has led to a pressing issue: a lack of training content for in-service NDT professionals. 

The Challenge

With assets lasting longer than expected in industries like oil and gas, aviation, and critical infrastructure, the need for advanced flaw detection in the in-service phase is greater than ever. But the available training content continues to revolve around traditional, new-product NDT applications. The evidence is clear:

1. Most NDT professionals are now focused on in-service activities instead of new assets.

2. Industry standards primarily emphasize new and cold NDT applications.

3. Traditional training content is based on legacy applications.

4. Examinations focus on new product applications.

5. Pass rates in in-service qualification demonstrations are alarmingly low.

6. In-service NDT is becoming increasingly important in regions with mature assets and an aging infrastructure.

Solving the Problem

To understand and close the gap on in-service training deficiencies, the NDT profession must first understand and acknowledge existing problems and make strategic modifications. End users should have a leading role, providing critical insights into damage mechanisms, examination techniques, and workforce size.

Engaging current employers and service providers is critical in executing, validating, and supplying crucial feedback on the quality and effectiveness of new in-service training content and requirements. Codes, standards, and regulatory bodies must be consulted in shaping in-service training requirements and implementation.

The solution involves several steps:

1. Engaging Industry Sectors: Each industry must define its unique training needs.

2. Gap Analysis: Evaluate the disparity between current training content and industry needs.

3. Effective Training Syllabi: Develop updated training outlines.

4. Revised Standards: Modify qualification and certification standards to reflect new content.

5. Practical Demonstrations: Implement quality assurance through practical demonstration requirements.

6. Continuous Improvement: Establish metrics to monitor and update in-service content.

7. Global Certification: Develop internationally recognized personnel certification requirements for in-service examination methods and techniques.

Conclusion

The challenge of providing adequate in-service NDT training content is significant but not insurmountable. It is ASNT’s responsibility to lead the way by initiating discussions and facilitating dialogue among stakeholders. To address this industry-wide problem effectively, collective engagement and open sharing of ideas are crucial. The field is continuously evolving, and preparing the workforce for these changes is essential. As the leader in the NDT profession, ASNT must remain proactive in creating a safer world through improved training.