What Does an NDT Technician Do With Their Training?

NDT stands for “nondestructive testing.” Nondestructive testing technicians and quality control technicians are the scientists and detectives of the manufacturing world, making sure objects and parts are not compromised so they can continue to perform their functions. Regardless of their exact position within a company, NDTs have important responsibilities for ensuring safety and reliability.

NDT Tasks

The purpose of nondestructive testing is to identify weaknesses and imperfections in products or machinery. For example, an NDT technician responsible for maintaining machinery may look for corrosion, cracks or other flaws that could compromise the machine’s effectiveness. NDT technicians may also test parts or products for flaws using a variety of methods, including ultrasonic testing, dye testing, visual inspection and more.

On a daily basis, most NDT technicians perform tasks related to quality control or quality assurance. Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology offers a Nondestructive Testing Technology diploma, as well as a Quality Control Management associate’s degree. The diploma program teaches students the basics of nondestructive testing with hands-on training in about 10 months. If students wish to further their education, they may apply to the Quality Control Management associate’s degree program, which can be completed in an additional 5 months. NDT technicians and QC managers may work in several different industries, including aerospace, aviation, construction, manufacturing, amusement parks, railroads, and more! Basically, NDTs and QC managers are essential to keeping society functioning safely.

Skills an NDT Needs

NDT students at Spartan College will learn applicable concepts in courses such as: Radiographic Testing, Eddy Current Testing, Liquid Penetrant Testing, Magnetic Particle Testing, Ultrasonic Testing, and Visual Testing. 

Other skills and behaviors important for NDT’s include:

Integrity
Communication skills
IT skills
Attention to detail
Problem-solving skills
The ability to explain things to others clearly
Dedication

NDTs also learn to perform the testing methods required by specific positions.

NDT Education

NDT technicians must have a range of skills, and they must know how to conduct multiple specialized tests to look for defects in building materials, machinery or other important assets. For this reason, anyone interested in nondestructive testing technology will need to complete an appropriate educational program.

During NDT practical training, students will spend their time learning to perform the different tests that will be used when in the industry. NDT students also learn how to interpret the results of specific tests so they can identify and explain specific defects.

If you are interested in NDT, you need to find an appropriate training program that can teach you the skills and knowledge necessary for nondestructive testing training requirements. At Spartan College, we offer hands-on NDT training courses to help students develop the skills needed. Contact us today to learn more.