The non-destructive testing (NDT) industry faces the challenge of keeping pace with technological transformation, while ensuring generational turnover. In this context, Marybeth Miceli, Executive Director of NDTMA (Non-Destructive Testing Management Association), stands out as a key figure in the strategy to boost NDT technical training and professionalize the sector.
From the PANNDT 2025 congress, Miceli shared the actions being taken by the organization he leads, and how these are focused on building a more robust, attractive and sustainable ecosystem for companies and NDT professionals.
NDTMA: an organization that brings the industry together
The NDTMA is the benchmark association for management in the non-destructive testing sector and aims to serve as a platform for collaboration between companies, training centers and regulatory bodies. From certification and regulatory issues to leadership and business management, the association generates training and refresher courses for the entire industry.
One of its main meeting points is its annual conference in Las Vegas, every February, where sessions on technology, sales, leadership and other key management issues are held. NDTMA also maintains active partnerships with entities such as ASNT, API, AWS and AMPP, broadening the impact of its initiatives.
NDT technical training as a generational priority
Attracting new generations to the NDT sector is one of the main challenges facing NDTMA and aware that new generations such as Gen Z and Alpha have different interests, habits and communication channels, the association is betting on a marketing strategy aimed at them.
In collaboration with API, they are developing short videos for platforms such as TikTok and YouTube Shorts, showing what it’s like to work with non-destructive testing, from drone inspections to underwater applications and high-level technological environments. In addition, several training centers are adopting blended learning models, which combine classroom training with digital resources.
We want to talk to people about what’s exciting to them and meet them where they are.
Marybeth Miceli.
Likewise, the growth of the sector is limited by the lack of knowledge about nondestructive testing, since many times, both students and parents are unaware of the job, technological and salary opportunities it offers. Miceli highlights the work being done by ASNT with the“Jobs of Tomorrow” series, distributed by Amazon, to make different branches of NDT more visible.
Integrity as a basis for the future of the industry
The effort to attract young talent and improve the perception of non-destructive inspection would not be complete without an ethical and trustworthy business ecosystem, which is why the association also focuses on what characterizes successful companies in the sector.
Over the years we have seen companies cutting salaries or even cutting costs. And, for a while, that makes them more profitable. But, ultimately, they don’t survive in the industry because, once you lose integrity or reputation in the NDT industry, it’s very hard to get it back.
Marybeth Miceli.
Companies that endure and grow are those that place trust, quality and ethics at the core of their operations. It is this consistent corporate culture that ensures that new professionals entering the industry find an environment in which to develop in a stable and responsible manner.
A community under construction
Throughout the interview, it is clear that the mission of the NDTMA is to professionalize and grow the NDT community from the ground up, whether through communication initiatives, institutional collaborations or events that promote technical NDT training, the organization seeks to generate sustained impact.
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Source: Inspenet.
