The global NDT sector, valued at $16.41 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $35.39 billion by 2032 (115% growth), is undergoing rapid transformation driven by critical and emerging technologies such as robotics, AI/ML, digital twins, IoT-enabled sensors, drones, and collaborative robots, which are reshaping inspection practices—especially in remote and hazardous environments—while also addressing growing workforce shortages as experienced professionals retire. Adoption levels vary widely across industries and regions, with some inspections still manual and others long automated, but the current transition offers scalable, cost-effective solutions where traditional methods once dominated. 

As the industry navigates fast-paced technological change, it must distinguish truly transformative innovations from hype, applying lessons learned from past integrations while staying grounded in NDT fundamentals. This panel brings together industry and research experts to share practical insights and engage in open dialogue on emerging frontiers, helping the NDT community adapt thoughtfully and thrive amid disruption.