NDT Forums Nondestructive Testing Forums

ndtstan · Joined: 17 Dec 2005 Posts: 3

I have a different problem than most. I have 20 years experience in Eddy current testing, inspecting pipe and tube used for the oil and gas industry. I am eligible for retirement in January 08, when I will be 48. I will then be ready to relocate and continue my career in the NDT field.

There are no schools in my area and I am wondering if online schooling is widely accepted. I am planning on getting certified in ET, UT and MT.

Any suggestions on how I should precede, should I try the online school route or should I attend classes?

Thanks,
Stan

wblum · Joined: 03 Nov 2002 Posts: 97 Location: USA

Most specs require "formal" training. Currently I know of no one who will accept online training as "formal" training. Your best bet is to attend a class.

Bill
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ndtstan · Joined: 17 Dec 2005 Posts: 3

Thanks Bill, I figured that would be the answer. What would be the best choice of school for someone who lives in Western PA?

wblum · Joined: 03 Nov 2002 Posts: 97 Location: USA

I know there is a school in Cheswick (near Pittsburg) but I don't have their phone number. Call 800-747-7732 and ask them for a number for their facility in Cheswick. They might even be looking for someone with your experience.

Otherwise, you might look at www.asnt.org and see what schools are in your area.

Bill

ndtstan · Joined: 17 Dec 2005 Posts: 3

Bill, thanks again. I will check it out right away.

joecanales · Joined: 08 Sep 2006 Posts: 1 Location: N/A

NDT TRAINING CENTERS, HOUSTON TX
PAUL MARKS, MAY BE ABLE TO GIVE YOU YOUR WEB-BASED TRAINING
THAT CAN COMPLY WITH ASNT-SNT-TC-1A. AND IF NOT
HE WILL FOR SURE LEAD YOU IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION.

JWasiJR · Joined: 25 Mar 2005 Posts: 14

ASNT's "SNT-TC-1A is a Recommend Practice" which states on the first page past the cover:

"This document is intended as a guideline for employers to establish their own written practice for the qualification and certification of nondestructive testing personnel. It is not intended to be used as a strict specification."

Which means that if an employer wants to use personnel with no formal class room training and accept proficency and work experience in a NDE method as part of their requirements for qualification of nondestructive testing personnel" in their written practice it's OK.

But they will give you a written test, a practical test, and specific test, and you must pass all three with a minimum grade of 70% and a composite grade of 80% or higher for qualification and certification in a NDE method to conform to codes and standards which are used in the construction industry.

Many good NDE Tech's have no formal class room training

Good traing books are a lot cheaper than classes. Field experience is valuable to all employers. You should not have any problem finding a job and being certified in your field.