Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician

Program Overview

The Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician program at Foothill College equips students with the skills and knowledge to perform NDT procedures, ensuring product safety and quality. Through a combination of classroom instruction, lab work, and hands-on training, students learn various NDT techniques, including visual inspection, magnetic particle inspection, penetrant inspection, radiographic testing, and ultrasonic testing. Graduates are qualified for entry-level positions in the NDT field, with potential career paths in industries such as manufacturing, oil and gas, aerospace, and construction.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Overview: The Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) Technician program at Foothill College, offered through the American Aerospace Technical Academy (AATA), provides students with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform non-destructive testing procedures used to ensure the safety and quality of various products.
This program is designed to meet the industry's demand for qualified NDT technicians in multiple sectors, including shipping, construction, oil and gas, petrochemical, nuclear, automotive, and aerospace.
• Objectives: Upon completion of this program, students will be able to:
• Interpret data and write inspection results.
• Select and set up test equipment for various testing techniques.
• Interpret results with respect to applicable codes and standards.
• Apply basic principles in radiography inspection.
• Understand and apply radiation safety requirements and standards.
• Understand and apply the laws of physics in ultrasound inspection.
• Apply the requirements for surface inspection techniques, such as magnetic particle inspection and penetrant inspection.
• Understand the advantages of computed and digital radiography over film radiography.
• Program Structure: The NDT Technician program consists of a combination of classroom instruction, laboratory work, and hands-on training.
Students will learn the theory and practice of various NDT techniques, including:
• Visual Inspection
• Magnetic Particle Inspection
• Penetrant Inspection
• Radiographic Testing
• Ultrasonic Testing
• Course Schedule: The program is offered on a part-time basis and can be completed in approximately two years.
Course offerings and class schedules may vary depending on the semester and availability.
• Individual Modules with Descriptions:
• Visual Inspection:
Introduction to visual inspection principles and techniques, including direct visual examination and the use of various tools and instruments.
• Magnetic Particle Inspection: Principles and applications of magnetic particle inspection, including the preparation of test surfaces, application of magnetic fields, and interpretation of results.
• Penetrant Inspection: Principles and applications of liquid penetrant and fluorescent penetrant inspection, including the preparation of test surfaces, application of penetrants, and interpretation of results.
• Radiographic Testing: Principles of radiography, including the generation and use of X-rays and gamma rays, film processing and interpretation, and radiation safety.
• Ultrasonic Testing: Principles of ultrasonic testing, including the generation and propagation of sound waves, the interpretation of test results, and the use of various ultrasonic transducers and instruments.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods: Students will be assessed through various methods, including:
• Exams: Written exams will assess the student's knowledge and understanding of the theoretical concepts and principles of NDT.
• Lab Tests: Hands-on lab tests will assess the student's ability to perform NDT procedures and techniques.
• Projects: Students may be required to complete individual or group projects to demonstrate their understanding and application of NDT techniques.
• Assessment Criteria: The following criteria will be used to evaluate student performance:
• Knowledge and understanding of NDT principles and theory.
• Ability to apply NDT techniques to real-world situations.
• Accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Communication skills in presenting and documenting test results.
• Safety and ethical conduct in performing NDT procedures.

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods: The program employs a combination of teaching methods to cater to diverse learning styles and provide students with a comprehensive understanding of NDT principles and techniques.
These methods include:
• Lectures: Classroom lectures provide the foundation for NDT theory and principles, covering topics such as physics, materials science, and the mechanics of various testing techniques.
• Demonstrations: Instructors demonstrate the practical applications of NDT techniques through live demonstrations, allowing students to observe the proper procedures and techniques in action.
• Hands-on Training: Students engage in hands-on laboratory exercises to gain practical experience in performing NDT procedures.
These exercises cover the setup and operation of NDT equipment, sample preparation, and interpretation of test results.
• Field Trips: Field trips to industrial facilities or NDT companies may be organized to provide students with a firsthand exposure to real-world NDT applications and the latest industry practices.
• Faculty: The NDT Technician program is taught by experienced instructors who possess a strong combination of theoretical knowledge and practical expertise in NDT techniques.
Instructors may have backgrounds in engineering, materials science, or related fields and hold relevant certifications and licenses from industry organizations.
• Unique Approaches: The program incorporates various unique approaches to enhance student learning and engagement:
• Industry Collaboration: The program collaborates with industry partners to ensure that the curriculum and training are aligned with the latest industry standards and practices.
• Real-World Projects: Students may be involved in real-world NDT projects or case studies, providing them with practical experience in solving NDT challenges.
• Simulation Software: The program may incorporate the use of simulation software to provide students with virtual hands-on training in NDT procedures, allowing them to practice techniques before applying them in real-world scenarios.

Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Upon completion of the NDT Technician program, graduates will be qualified for various career opportunities in the following industries:
• Non-Destructive Testing Companies
• Manufacturing Industries
• Oil and Gas Exploration and Production
• Aerospace and Aviation
• Nuclear Power Generation
• Construction and Infrastructure
• Job Opportunities: Job titles associated with the NDT Technician program include:
• NDT Technician
• Non-Destructive Testing Inspector
• Ultrasonic Technician
• Radiographic Technician
• Penetrant Testing Specialist
• Career Outcomes: Graduates of the NDT Technician program can expect employment in a variety of settings, performing NDT procedures on a wide range of materials and components.
They may work independently or as part of a team, contributing to the safety and reliability of products and structures in various industries. The program prepares students for entry-level positions in the NDT field, with opportunities for advancement to more senior roles with experience and additional training.