ASNT Newsroom

(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.   

(Columbus, OH) – The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) Certification Services announces its partnership with BadgeCert Inc., a leader in digital credentialing and professional recognition. The partnership allows ASNT certificate holders to display a secure and verifiable digital badge on social networks, resumes, email signatures, and websites.  

“We are excited to offer digital badge services through our new partnership with BadgeCert,” said Rali Petrova, ASNT Certification Services LLC Deputy Director. “Digital badges have gained significant traction in the credentialing industry, and we have found that BadgeCert’s reliable security and verification capabilities will protect the integrity of our certifications while also giving our members the opportunity to digitally share their hard-earned credentials.” 

In today’s digital world, professionals want the option to share their credentials online. Digital badges are used in professional and social networking environments to recognize achievements and establish credibility in real-time with a single click. BadgeCert digital badges are third-party verifiable icons packed with information or “metadata” about the issuing organization, when and how the credential was earned, and when it will expire.   

ASNT will begin offering digital badge services immediately.  

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) Board of Directors recently approved a membership dues increase, which goes into effect on 1 July 2023. The dues increase allows ASNT to provide and sustain enhanced member benefits.  

“The adjustment is necessary to ensure that we can continue providing our members with the high-quality programs, services, and resources that they have come to expect from ASNT,” said Heather Cowles, ASNT Membership and Engagement Director. “ASNT is grateful for our members and their unwavering support and dedication to the NDT industry. Their continuous involvement is essential for the sustainability of our globally recognized organization,” said Cowles.  

New dues rates are presented below: 
New NDT Professional   $45.00 USD  
Military  $45.00 USD  
NDT Professional 1 - Year $105.00 USD  
NDT Professional 2 - Years $200.00 USD  
NDT Professional 3 - Years $300.00 USD  
NDT Professional 5 - Years $450.00 USD  
Group Membership Tier 1 (2-5)   $400.00 USD  
Group Membership Tier 2 (6-10)   $800.00 USD  
Group Membership Tier 3 (11-20)   $1,600.00 USD  

Student, Retired, and Lifetime membership dues are unaffected by the dues increase. Group Membership Tier 4 (21+) will continue to be negotiated.  

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.    

ASNT Certification Services LLC recently completed the development and launch in March 2023 of its new ASNT 9712 certification program. This program is the next phase of our existing ACCP program. With the launch of the ASNT 9712 program, we have begun the notification and transition process for individuals currently in the ACCP program. 

As of 15 May 2023, we no longer accept applications for new (first-time applicants) for the ACCP program. Additionally, as of 30 August 2023, we will no longer renew existing ACCP-certified personnel. Current ACCP-certified individuals will need to renew under the ASNT 9712 program requirements. Once this occurs, the transition period will run to September 2028. At that time, we will sunset the ACCP program.

What does this mean for you as an ACCP-CWI/SCWI certificate holder?

The transition of ACCP into the ASNT 9712 certification program has created a gap between the ASNT 9712 VT certification and the American Welding Society (AWS) CWI/SCWI program requirements. Though we have been working on a gap analysis between the current CWI/SCWI program and the ASNT 9712 program, it has been a challenging task, and it has become apparent that it will not be completed by the established cutoff date listed above. With this misalignment, we would no longer be able to provide a VT certification within our programs to CWIs/SCWIs.

ASNT and AWS see value in this program for its members and do not wish to see the program sunset. WE have partnered with AWS to create a task group to address the misalignment of requirements and the steps needed to maintain and expand this almost 20-year program between our organizations.

With the ongoing collaborative effort between our two organizations, we have approved a 24-month extension beginning 1 July 2023 of a restricted ACCP Level II VT certification using your CWI/SCWI certificate. The extension provides extra time for the task group from both organizations to develop the implementation process for this program. 

During this 24-month extension, we will accept CWI/SCWI new and renewal applications for ACCP Level II VT certification using your CWI/SCWI certificate. We have also asked AWS to inform its membership about the program status change as described above. 

We look forward to our organizations working together to ensure the continuation of this program in the future. If you have any questions, email certification@asnt.org.

(Columbus, OH) The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT) is proud to announce that Atlas Evaluation and Inspection Services (AEIS) has earned ASNT’s Employer-Based Certification (EBC) Audit Program accreditation. The accreditation ensures nondestructive testing (NDT) personnel certification compliance and proper oversight of employer-based NDT certification programs.

“We are thrilled that AEIS has earned ASNT's EBC Audit Program accreditation," said Brian Frye, ASNT ISQ Program Manager. "Organizations who earn EBC accreditation demonstrate that they have successfully established and upheld an employer-based certification program."

The EBC program provides the NDT industry with a registry program that ensures NDT service providers and inspection agencies meet the minimum compliance with either ASNT Recommended Practice No. SNT-TC-1A or ANSI/ASNT CP-189 through the employer’s written practice.

“AEIS provides testing, inspection, and certifications on Infrastructure projects in the New York Metro area, “said Nagesh Goel, President and Co-founder of AEIS. “Nondestructive testing has been core to our business, and since its inception twelve years ago, we have put a very rigorous NDT program in place to ensure that the projects that we help build are safe and meet quality standards. We are proud to have earned ASNT’s Employer-Based Certification program accreditation. This important credential demonstrates to our clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders that our company has a well-established and rigorous certification program for its NDT personnel.”

ASNT’s EBC Audit program establishes a comprehensive registry of NDT service providers. These providers undergo a thorough assessment by ASNT to ensure their compliance with the requirements set forth in SNT-TC-1A or ANSI/ASNT CP-189, or both. By participating in this program, registered organizations offer prospective and current clients the assurance that their employer-based personnel certification program(s) align with the relevant standards. This accreditation serves as a testament to the company's robust and stringent NDT personnel certification program, instilling confidence in clients, regulatory bodies, and other stakeholders. Moreover, it guarantees that NDT personnel receive proper training and possess the necessary qualifications, resulting in accident prevention, cost reduction, and improved project quality.

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. 

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.