ASNT Newsroom

(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) announces that the Board of Directors has published proposed revisions to the ASNT Bylaws. Details of the revisions and rationale supporting the proposed revisions are posted at asnt.org/bylaws. 

ASNT members will have sixty (60) days to submit questions and comments about the proposed revisions. ASNT’s Board Secretary will respond to all questions and comments, all of which will be considered before the Board of Directors votes to adopt the amendment or revision. All questions and comments concerning the proposed revisions should be emailed to secretary@asnt.org by 15 September 2023. The responses to all member questions and comments will be posted to ASNT.org/Bylaws for transparency purposes. 

ASNT’s Board Chair will conduct a special (virtual) meeting of the members per Article II: Members, Section 6 – Special Meetings of the Members, before the Board of Directors votes to adopt the proposed revisions. This meeting will allow members to question or comment on the proposal. The proposed amendment or revision will be adopted upon an affirmative vote of at least two-thirds (2/3) of the Directors in office, not including the Executive Officer. 

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) 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.

(Columbus, OH) -The American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), the world’s largest technical society for nondestructive testing (NDT) professionals, has released a five-video series that showcases the indispensable work of NDT technicians. Technicians featured in the series hold a pivotal responsibility in safeguarding the safety and dependability of numerous vital components that shape our everyday existence. From infrastructure and pipelines to aircraft and welds, even extending to the hardware employed in NASA's spacecraft, NDT technicians play a vital role in identifying and preempting potential faults and flaws.

The series spotlights the remarkable journeys of five NDT technicians: Carly Cramblit, Jesse Groom, Quinton LeJeune, Brent Moulton, and Pedro Serruto. Through their compelling personal narratives and valuable perspectives, viewers gain an intimate understanding of the significance of their work and the profound impact that NDT has on ensuring public safety. These individuals provide an authentic glimpse into the critical role played by NDT in upholding the integrity of various sectors.

"The development and dissemination of this video series play a crucial role in raising awareness about the NDT industry," says Garra Liming, Director of Marketing and Communication at ASNT. Toni Kervina, Director of Content at ASNT, added that the series “highlights NDT technicians from diverse backgrounds who collectively work towards the mission of ensuring public safety. Additionally, these videos serve as a valuable recommendation for individuals seeking an exciting and fulfilling career by showcasing the significance of this industry."

The “This Is NDT: Technicians” video series can be viewed and shared on the official ASNT YouTube channel. To learn more about NDT, including the different methods used for inspections and the types of careers and industries it serves, visit 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 an object's safety, reliability, or functionality. 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) announces the establishment of the ASNT Houston facility, which will offer nondestructive testing (NDT) training courses, computer-based certification testing, and a laboratory for in-house practical examinations. The opening of ASNT Houston aligns with ASNT’s Strategic Plan, particularly Pillar #1: Expand and improve our certification portfolio and Pillar #5: Implement a Regional Growth Strategy. 

“ASNT’s headquarters has not moved to Houston,” said Paul Lang, ASNT Certification Services LLC Executive Director. “The new facility represents a transformative approach to serving the NDT industry. The choice of location was deliberate, considering Houston’s location being the epicenter of ASNT’s largest industry—oil and gas—while also being a major hub for other industries, including aerospace and infrastructure.“ 

Apart from housing computer-based testing and practical examination laboratories, the facility will serve as a venue for in-person certification preparation courses. Initially, ASNT NDT Level III courses will be available, with future plans to broaden the offerings to include Level II, ASNT 9712, and ISQ coursework. In addition, the facility will host outreach events such as NDT demonstrations and community gatherings in collaboration with local trade schools, high schools, and the ASNT Greater Houston Section. 

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 an object's safety, reliability, or functionality. 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) and the American Petroleum Institute (API) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to facilitate increased collaboration and promote a shared pursuit of quality nondestructive testing/examination (NDT/E) within the oil and natural gas industry.

“With the signing of this MOU, ASNT looks forward to building on our already successful relationship with API to advance the field of NDT and meet the needs of the oil and gas industry,” said Neal J. Couture, CAE, ASNT Executive Director. “Through our partnership and collaboration, we will work together to leverage our collective expertise and resources in providing technical and program input to each respective organization to create linkages and the sharing of information and knowledge.”

NDT/E plays a vital role in ensuring safety by identifying damage, defects, and corrosion indications within the natural gas and oil industry. Owners and operators rely on the expertise and proficiency of NDT/E technicians to conduct the necessary inspections that inform asset integrity plans. These plans are critical for maintaining safe operations and preventing disruptions and expensive errors. 

“API is committed to working with our colleagues to ensure that the natural gas and oil industry has access to the best possible NDE resources,” API Director of Individual Certification Programs Andri Orphanides said. “Working with these leading organizations advances our mission and strengthens our industry, ensuring that we’re preparing quality NDT technicians.”

About ASNT  

Serving more than 22 000 members and certificate holders worldwide, ASNT, based in Columbus, Ohio, is the largest technical society for NDT professionals. ASNT certification and standards programs, publications, conferences, education, membership, and professional development programs are the foundation for expanding awareness of advancements in NDT. Governed by a volunteer group of officers and directors, ASNT is organized by councils representing interests relating to certification, engineering, research, education, and section operations.  

About API

API represents all segments of America’s natural gas and oil industry, which supports more than 11 million US jobs and is backed by a growing grassroots movement of millions of Americans. Our approximately 600 members produce, process, and distribute the majority of the nation’s energy, and participate in API Energy Excellence®, which is accelerating environmental and safety progress by fostering new technologies and transparent reporting. API was formed in 1919 as a standards-setting organization and has developed more than 800 standards to enhance operational and environmental safety, efficiency, and sustainability.

For press inquiries, please email gliming@asnt.org. 

(Columbus, OH) The ASNT Certification Services LLC announces that the Certification and Accreditation Department recently completed a renewal audit for the ISO 17024: Conformity assessment – General requirements for bodies operating certification of persons by the ANSI National Accreditation Board (ANAB). The certification covers some of ASNT CS’s nondestructive testing (NDT) certification programs and provides global recognition among other NDT programs worldwide. 

The ANAB accreditation mark is widely recognized as a symbol of excellence by employers, industry leaders, hiring managers, and credential holders across the globe. ANAB’s personnel certification accreditation program, which began in 2003, has aided certification programs in elevating their standards from good to exceptional. 

ANAB employs a process for accrediting certification bodies that adheres to the international standard (ISO/IEC 17011). This rigorous and internationally recognized accreditation process ensures that ANAB conforms to the highest accreditation standards and represents the best practices in the field of accreditation.

“The Certification and Accreditation team handled an aggressive audit schedule with flying colors,” said Paul Lang, ASNT Certification Services LLC Executive Director. “The ANAB audit team remarked that our team was very professional, knowledgeable about our programs, and did a fantastic job presenting the required material that showed evidence of a properly implemented program. During the out brief, we were notified of only one nonconformance; from my years of experience as an auditor and being audited, it is unusual to have only one nonconformance. This is a testament to the organization’s understanding of the program requirements and their proper implementation.”  

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.