Are you interested in becoming a non-destructive testing (NDT) technician but not sure what industries you can prepare for? There are many options for graduates of MIAT College of Technology’s NDT Advanced Technician program to pursue.* Whether you have a passion for aviation, automotive or another industry, NDT technicians are in demand. So, what is NDT?
What Is NDT?
NDT stands for non-destructive testing. It is product testing for extreme quality assurance. An NDT technician uses tools and techniques to identify flaws in materials and structures without causing damage or disassembling them.
An NDT technician collects data about a product or material through non-destructive inspections to determine if it has any imperfections. If something is flawed with the product or material, it’s the NDT technician’s job to report the issue to management.
What Industries Employ NDT Technicians?
NDT technicians can work in many different industries. They can work on anything from vehicles and planes to and more. Here are some of the most common industries for NDT technicians to enter:
Aviation
The aviation industry involves anything related to air travel, including planes, light aircraft and helicopters. It’s divided into three different sectors: general, commercial and military. Someone who is interested in aircraft and engineering might enjoy applying their NDT skills in aviation. NDT technicians can save lives because even the smallest flaw could be catastrophic.
Defense
The defense industry includes aerospace and defense companies. They’re responsible for creating and manufacturing weapons, weapon systems, ships and even spacecraft.
Construction
In the construction industry, NDT technicians inspect the material used to build roads, buildings and sewage systems. This field is ideal for those who like working on large-scale projects and enjoy being outdoors for most of the day. Many of these construction or infrastructure projects are funded by government agencies, so working as an NDT technician in this industry can include opportunities in both public and private sectors.
Oil and Gas
The oil and gas industry is one of the most important sectors for an NDT technician. These technicians are responsible for ensuring the safety of others and determining how reliable current operations are. They may be called to perform emergency tests and collaborate with other specialists in the industry.
Automotive
NDT technicians check the quality and viability of auto parts . These technicians typically use the magnetic particle NDT technique when inspecting vehicles. NDT testing in this industry also covers the windshield glass, chassis, brakes, and other important parts of the engine.
How Do You Become an NDT Technician?
One way to become an NDT technician is to attend a trade school like MIAT College of Technology. The NDT Advanced Technician program at MIAT provides hands-on training, practical experience and industry support. Classes are led by industry-experienced instructors offering one-on-one attention, so you get expert mentorship while you put theory to the test in a workshop performing real NDT techniques.
In MIAT’s NDT Advanced Technician program, students get hands-on training by practicing real-life scenarios. MIAT even offers career services to help students find jobs after graduation. The Career Services team can help with building a résumé, preparing for job interviews and locating job fairs.
What are the Different Levels of NDT Technician?
NDT technicians are classified into three levels. The NDT Advanced Technician program at MIAT can prepare graduates to enter the field as Level I technicians.
Level I NDT technicians perform basic procedures, and their role primarily focuses on supporting Level II technicians.
Becoming a Level II NDT technician means learning new skills, which includes setting up and calibrating the necessary equipment. Level II technicians learn how to sort through, organize and accurately report test results, and they also manage Level I technicians.
A Level III NDT technician is the highest rank. At this level, technicians develop, qualify and ultimately approve every NDT procedure and technique. Once the tests are finished, they’re responsible for reporting the findings. Level III technicians are also eligible to mentor Level I and Level II technicians.
How Long is the NDT Advanced Technician Program?
At MIAT, the full-time NDT Advanced Technician training program can be completed in as little as 9 months. The courses at MIAT can prepare graduates to enter the field as Level I NDT technicians.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know more about the industries that employ NDT technicians, which industry are you passionate about? Do you want to work on aircraft or cars, or in the construction or defense industries? Learn more about MIAT College of Technology’s NDT Advanced Technician program today.
Non-Destructive Testing Advanced Technician Diploma Program
The Non-Destructive Testing Advanced Technician diploma program from MIAT College of Technology provides the hands-on training, practical experience and industry support it takes to pursue an exciting technical career. Courses in the Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Advanced Technician program are interactive and led by dedicated instructors with years of experience working in professional settings. Students get one-on-one attention and personal support to pick up new skills quickly and firsthand technical knowledge to feel confident.
To learn more about the Non-Destructive Testing Advanced Technician Program and to explore if MIAT is right for you, fill out the form on this page. Contact us if you are interested in becoming a non-destructive testing technician today.
*MIAT is educational institution and cannot guarantee employment or salary. For program outcome information and other disclosures, visit www.miat.edu/disclosures.