ASNT Newsroom
The ASNT newsroom brings you the latest news, updates, and developments from ASNT and the world of nondestructive testing. Explore stories about innovations, events, and key moments that shape the industry and the work of ASNT.
The ASNT newsroom brings you the latest news, updates, and developments from ASNT and the world of nondestructive testing. Explore stories about innovations, events, and key moments that shape the industry and the work of ASNT.
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.
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:
Most NDT professionals are now focused on in-service activities instead of new assets.
Industry standards primarily emphasize new and cold NDT applications.
Traditional training content is based on legacy applications.
Examinations focus on new product applications.
Pass rates in in-service qualification demonstrations are alarmingly low.
In-service NDT is becoming increasingly important in regions with mature assets and an aging infrastructure.
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:
Engaging Industry Sectors: Each industry must define its unique training needs.
Gap Analysis: Evaluate the disparity between current training content and industry needs.
Effective Training Syllabi: Develop updated training outlines.
Revised Standards: Modify qualification and certification standards to reflect new content.
Practical Demonstrations: Implement quality assurance through practical demonstration requirements.
Continuous Improvement: Establish metrics to monitor and update in-service content.
Global Certification: Develop internationally recognized personnel certification requirements for in-service examination methods and techniques.
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.
(Columbus, OH) – The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) and the Japanese Society for Non-Destructive Inspection (JSNDI) signed a mutual recognition agreement (MRA) in continued support of their long-standing collaboration on the equivalency of certification schemes.
“With the launch of ASNT's 9712 Certification Program, we took the opportunity to sign a reaffirmation of our mutual recognition agreement when both societies’ board members were together," said Paul Lang, ASNT Certification Services LLC Executive Director. "We look forward to working together in keeping the world safe with mutually competent and certified NDT professionals."
Professor Ikuo Ihara, President of JSNDI; Takamasa Ogata, PhD, Director and Past President of JSNDI; Professor Hirotsugu Inoue, Director of Certification and Qualification for JRSNDI; and Makoto Ochiai, PhD, Vice President of JSNDI, signed the MRA on behalf of JSNDI, cementing ASNT and JSNDI's long-standing relationship and desire to work together and explore synergistic opportunities for both societies.
About ASNT Certification Services LLC
ASNT Certification Services LLC was established to manage and operate the certification and accreditation programs of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT). With more than 33 000 certifications issued to NDT professionals worldwide, ASNT Certification Services currently administers six certification programs—ASNT NDT Level III, ASNT NDT Level II, ASNT 9712, ASNT Central Certification Program (ACCP), Industrial Radiography Radiation Safety Personnel (IRRSP), and the Industry Sector Qualification – Oil & Gas (ISQ – O&G) program—and manages the Employer-Based Certification (EBC) Audit Program.
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.
(Chennai, India) ASNT has announced the establishment of ASNT India Private Ltd., known as ASNT India, a new subsidiary for-profit corporation to conduct business operations in India and to serve interests in Asia and the Middle East. Located in Chennai in Tamil Nadu, the establishment of ASNT India will enable ASNT to expand and improve its certification portfolio and increase its global nondestructive testing (NDT) research and scholarship activities.
Nestled in Ambattur Industrial Estate and spanning 7500 sq. ft., the training hub boasts advanced NDT technology, offering hands-on training that equips participants for the industry. ASNT’s cutting-edge training hub was inaugurated during the ICENDE-2023 Conference and Exhibition hosted by the ASNT India Section in August 2023. ASNT India will officially open in fall 2023 and provide ASNT-approved training courses, publications, and certification exams (including computer-based and practical lab exams).
This launch aligns with the growing demand for skilled NDT technicians, notably in “Make in India” initiatives. Industries like oil refineries, aerospace, and megastructures require adept NDT professionals. The global NDT market, predicted to reach US$16.66 billion by 2029, underscores this growth. ASNT India Pvt. Ltd. aspires to certify over 500 technicians annually, enhancing the workforce across India and the Gulf region.
Neal J. Couture, ASNT Executive Director, underlines the significance of this facility in boosting safety, quality, and compliance across sectors. The ASNT India facility strives to enhance research and learning opportunities in NDT, besides its certification programs. Prakash Gokulanandam, General Manager of ASNT India, emphasizes the focus on the ASNT 9712 program for Level IIs and IIIs, offering expert-taught courses, practical labs, and computer-based exams.
The inauguration was graced by dignitaries, including Dr. U Kamachi Mudali, Vice Chancellor of Homi Bhabha National Institute, Dr. B Venkatraman, President of the ASNT India Section, and industry leaders from ASNT including John Kinsey, President of ASNT Certification Services LLC Board of Managers; Mohammed AbuFour, ASNT Regional Director, Region 19; Paul Lang, Director of ASNT Certification Services LLC; and Clyde May, ASNT Vice President.
“The opening of ASNT India further solidifies our position as a global society, benefiting our members in the US and abroad,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Executive Director. “With the launch of our facility, we are excited to focus on delivering the ASNT 9712 program, associated training courses, and expanding our membership in the area. We are committed to providing top-notch services to the NDT community in India, and we look forward to building strong relationships with our members and partners in the region.”
ASNT will offer the following products and services at launch:
ASNT 9712 Level II and III exams in the following methods: magnetic particle testing (MT), liquid penetrant testing (PT), ultrasonic testing (UT), and radiographic testing (RT). ASNT India will offer visual testing exams (VT) in phase two of the launch.
ASNT NDT Level II and III exams in the following methods: MT, PT, UT, RT, and VT.
NDT training and certification preparation classes for ASNT 9712 and ASNT NDT Level II and III exams.
Product bundles composed of certification exams and training.
For more information, visit the ASNT India website at asntindia.org.
About ASNT India
ASNT is the association for nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals committed to making the world a safer place. ASNT India Private Limited, known as ASNT India, is a subsidiary for-profit corporation that will conduct business operations in India and serve interests in Asia and the Middle East. Located in Chennai in Tamil Nadu, ASNT India will enable ASNT to expand and improve its certification portfolio and increase global nondestructive testing (NDT) research and scholarship activities.
For press inquiries, please email prakash@asnt.org.
(Chennai, India) ASNT India announces that ZChem Specialties Pvt. Ltd. has become a generous sponsor of leading-edge nondestructive testing (NDT) equipment, including MPI Bench Unit - VC 3000 and FPI Stationary Line - V 900T, to be used for the training of NDT students and professionals.
“The goal of this collaboration with ZChem is to give every student and trainee access to the most advanced NDT equipment to effectively prepare them for careers in the NDT industry,” said Prakash Gokulanandam, ASNT India Director and General Manager. “This collaboration will empower them with an exceptional training experience, equipping them with both theoretical expertise and practical hands-on skills to be successful in their NDT careers.”
The partnership with ZChem signifies a significant achievement in advancing the NDT training capabilities at the ASNT India training and testing facility. With the collaboration, ASNT India aims to achieve the following objectives:
Elevate Training Standards: The state-of-the-art NDT equipment will provide students with hands-on experience using the latest tools and techniques, fostering a deep understanding of NDT principles and methodologies.
Bridge the Skill Gap: With access to cutting-edge equipment, ASNT India can better equip trainees to address industry challenges and bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Nurture Industry-Ready Professionals: The enhanced training capabilities will empower individuals to emerge as skilled, competent, and industry-ready NDT professionals, contributing to the growth of the NDT community in India.
Strengthen Industry Collaboration: The collaboration with prestigious equipment sponsors demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing NDT training and the professional growth of individuals in the field.
ASNT India is dedicated to delivering exceptional NDT training programs that adhere to global NDT standards and best practices. The equipment sponsorship further strengthens our commitment to elevating NDT education and contributing to a safer and more dependable industrial landscape in India.
About ASNT India
ASNT is the association for nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals committed to making the world a safer place. ASNT India Private Limited, known as ASNT India, is a subsidiary for-profit corporation that will conduct business operations in India and serve interests in Asia and the Middle East. Located in Chennai in Tamil Nadu, ASNT India will enable ASNT to expand and improve its certification portfolio and increase global nondestructive testing (NDT) research and scholarship activities.
For press inquiries, please email prakash@asnt.org
(Chennai, India) ASNT India announces that Evident Scientific Pvt Ltd, India, has become a generous sponsor of state-of-the-art nondestructive testing (NDT) equipment, including several EPOCH 650 (Ultrasonic Flaw Detector) and OmniScan X3 Series (Phased Array), to be used for training of NDT students and professionals.
"We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Evident Scientific Pvt Ltd, India, for their invaluable support in helping to enrich our training programs," said Prakash Gokulanandam, ASNT India Director and General Manager. “This collaboration will enable us to offer our students and trainees the best possible training experience and prepare them for successful careers in the NDT industry."
The collaboration with Evident Scientific Pvt Ltd, India, represents a significant step towards enhancing NDT training capabilities at the ASNT India training and testing facility. With the collaboration, ASNT India aims to achieve the following objectives:
Elevate Training Standards: The state-of-the-art NDT equipment will provide students with hands-on experience using the latest tools and techniques, fostering a deep understanding of NDT principles and methodologies.
Bridge the Skill Gap: With access to cutting-edge equipment, ASNT India can better equip trainees to address industry challenges and bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Nurture Industry-Ready Professionals: The enhanced training capabilities will empower individuals to emerge as skilled, competent, and industry-ready NDT professionals, contributing to the growth of the NDT community in India.
Strengthen Industry Collaboration: The collaboration with prestigious equipment sponsors demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing NDT training and the professional growth of individuals in the field.
ASNT India will deliver top-tier NDT training programs that align with global NDT standards and best practices. The equipment sponsorship reinforces ASNT India's mission to raise the bar for NDT education and contribute to a safer and more reliable industrial landscape in India.
About ASNT India
ASNT is the association for nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals committed to making the world a safer place. ASNT India Private Limited, known as ASNT India, is a subsidiary for-profit corporation that will conduct business operations in India and serve interests in Asia and the Middle East. Located in Chennai in Tamil Nadu, ASNT India will enable ASNT to expand and improve its certification portfolio and increase global nondestructive testing (NDT) research and scholarship activities.
For press inquiries, please email prakash@asnt.org
(Chennai, India) ASNT India announces that Electronic & Engineering Co. (I) P. Ltd. (EECI) has become a generous sponsor of advanced nondestructive testing (NDT) equipment, including Digiscan DS-702 (Ultrasonic Flaw Detector), EF-9Y (Magnetic Particle Yoke), and PY2 (Permanent Yoke), to be used for the training of NDT students and professionals.
“It’s important that our students and trainees have access to the most state-of-the-art equipment to effectively prepare for careers in the NDT industry,” said Prakash Gokulanandam, ASNT India Director and General Manager. “This collaboration will empower our students and trainees with a top-notch training experience, equipping them with both theoretical and hands-on NDT knowledge to help them grow their NDT careers.”
The collaboration with EECI marks a crucial milestone in elevating the NDT training capabilities at the ASNT India training and testing facility. With the collaboration, ASNT India aims to achieve the following objectives:
Elevate Training Standards: The state-of-the-art NDT equipment will provide students with hands-on experience using the latest tools and techniques, fostering a deep understanding of NDT principles and methodologies.
Bridge the Skill Gap: With access to cutting-edge equipment, ASNT India can better equip trainees to address industry challenges and bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application.
Nurture Industry-Ready Professionals: The enhanced training capabilities will empower individuals to emerge as skilled, competent, and industry-ready NDT professionals, contributing to the growth of the NDT community in India.
Strengthen Industry Collaboration: The collaboration with prestigious equipment sponsors demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing NDT training and the professional growth of individuals in the field.
ASNT India is dedicated to delivering exceptional NDT training programs that adhere to global NDT standards and best practices. The equipment sponsorship further strengthens our commitment to elevating NDT education and contributing to a safer and more dependable industrial landscape in India.
About ASNT India
ASNT is the association for nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals committed to making the world a safer place. ASNT India Private Limited, known as ASNT India, is a subsidiary for-profit corporation that will conduct business operations in India and serve interests in Asia and the Middle East. Located in Chennai in Tamil Nadu, ASNT India will enable ASNT to expand and improve its certification portfolio and increase global nondestructive testing (NDT) research and scholarship activities.
For press inquiries, please email prakash@asnt.org.
(Chennai, India) ASNT India announces the launch of its new website—asntindia.org. The website includes features to help users quickly and easily navigate the site to find the information they need to sign up or renew their ASNT membership and register for training classes and certification exams. The launch of the website precedes the opening of the ASNT India facility in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, which is expected to open in the Kosmo One Business Park in late August.
“We are very happy about the launch of ASNT India’s new website for our partners, clients, and visitors looking to explore our solutions and offerings,” said Prakash Gokulanandam, ASNT India Director and General Manager. “I feel that this new website aligns well with our company’s vision for growth and expansion by encompassing our training, certification, and membership portfolio.”
Visitors to the website can explore ASNT India's nondestructive testing (NDT) products and service offerings, including:
ASNT 9712 Level II and III exams in the following methods: magnetic particle testing, liquid penetrant testing, ultrasonic testing, radiographic testing, and visual testing.
ASNT NDT Level II and III exams in all methods.
NDT training and certification preparation classes for ASNT 9712 and ASNT NDT Level II and III exams.
Product bundles composed of certification exams and training.
ASNT India will lead ASNT's expansion efforts in India, Asia, and the Middle East to improve ASNT's certification portfolio and increase global NDT research and scholarship activities.
About ASNT India
ASNT is the association for nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals committed to making the world a safer place. ASNT India Private Limited, known as ASNT India, is a subsidiary for-profit corporation that will conduct business operations in India and serve interests in Asia and the Middle East. Located in Chennai in Tamil Nadu, ASNT India will enable ASNT to expand and improve its certification portfolio and increase global nondestructive testing (NDT) research and scholarship activities.
For press inquiries, please email prakash@asnt.org.
(Columbus, OH) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) announces its support of the Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act. This legislation would provide more opportunities for Americans to pursue credential programs offered by professional societies and associations.
The “Freedom to Invest in Tomorrow’s Workforce Act” (S.722 or H.R. 1477) was reintroduced on 8 March 2023, by Senators Amy Klobuchar (D-MN) and Mike Braun (R-IN) in the upper chamber and Representatives Robert Wittman (R-VA) and Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) in the House.
If enacted, the bill would give individuals across the country the freedom to use their “529” savings plans to cover the costs of certain workforce training and credentialing programs, including those offered by associations. Additionally, the bill would allow students to use their 529 funds to pay for associated costs related to certification exams and maintenance of certification credentials. Right now, only colleges, vocational schools, universities, or other post-secondary institutions are considered eligible for 529 education savings.
Currently, if 529 account withdrawals are used for qualified higher education expenses or tuition for elementary or secondary schools, earnings in the 529 account are not subject to federal income tax or, in many cases, state income tax. If 529 account withdrawals are not used for qualified higher education expenses or tuition for elementary or secondary schools; however, they will be subject to state and federal income taxes and an additional 10% federal tax penalty on earnings.
“ASNT supports the consideration, passage, and implementation of this legislation,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Executive Director. “If enacted, it would provide more young people with the opportunity to pursue skilled trades, such as NDE/NDT, with fewer out-of-pocket costs for training programs and certifications.”
Today, funds held in a 529 savings account can only be utilized for post-secondary or other higher education institutions without the account holders incurring a tax penalty. This bipartisan legislation would allow workers to use 529 education savings accounts to pay for voluntary professional certifications and credentials such as those offered by professional organizations and associations, including ASNT.
At the time of introduction, the bill was supported by more than 100 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, and Chennai, India.
For press inquiries, please email gliming@asnt.org.