PANELS
PANELS
PANELS
From Reactive to Predictive: NDT’s Role in Asset Integrity 4.0 and Performance Based Regulations & Standards, Regulatory Modernization
Tuesday 13 May, 10:20 - 11:40AM
Moderators:
Ajay Pasupuleti, Ooga Technologies
Panelists:
David Bajula, PROtect LLC
Michael Childers, Southwest Gas Corporation
Prashant Kadaba, ConEdison
Jason Riggs, Marmon Rail
DESCRIPTION:
Unplanned shutdowns, costly repairs, and safety incidents remain some of the biggest threats to asset owners worldwide. This panel will explore how Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) is enabling a shift from reactive response to proactive prevention, combining advanced sensors, digital twins, and data analytics to predict failures before they occur.
Our experts will highlight how this digital transformation not only strengthens workforce and environmental safety but also delivers measurable business returns—reducing downtime, optimizing inspection costs, and extending asset life. Real-world examples will illustrate how industries are using proactive NDT strategies to protect both people and profits.
AI, Robotics, and Beyond: The Next Frontier in NDT
Tuesday 13 May, 1:20 - 2:40PM
Moderators:
Ramon Salvador Fernandez Orozco, Fercon Group
Panelists:
Dr. Eric Lindgren, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson AFB
Dr. LoriAnne Groo, Air Force Research Laboratory, Wright Patterson AFB
Brian S. White, Carestream NDT
DESCRIPTION:
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.
NDT for Advanced Manufacturing
Wednesday 14 May, 10:20 - 11:40AM
Moderators:
Dr. Anna Case, Sandia National Labs
Dr. Daniel Roettgen, Sandia National Labs
Panelists:
Dr. Joseph Turner, CNDE and Iowa State University
Dr. David Jack, Baylor University
Paul Klippel, The Phased Array Company (TPAC)
Dr. Andrew Townsend, Lawrence Livermore National Lab
DESCRIPTION:
Additively manufactured (AM) components contain discontinuities, indications, and defects that can change the component’s mechanical performance during qualification or while the part is in-service. The inspection uncertainty and misidentification of discontinuities created during the AM build limits the use of this manufacturing process for aerospace applications. Current research at government laboratories, universities, and public companies is addressing these concerns by focusing on mechanical characteristics, metallurgical techniques, and nondestructive inspection methods to assess AM-created specimens.
This panel will focus on direct metal laser sintering (DMLS) powder bed fusion, Vacuum Assisted Resin Transfer Molding (VARTM) processes for composite materials, and complex permittivity measurements on ceramics and polymers. Research efforts and how nondestructive evaluation assists design teams will be described. Several case studies will be summarized, and the advantages and disadvantages of traditional and advanced inspection techniques will be discussed.
Fostering NDT Education and Open Innovation: Collaborating Across Academia, Industry, and Startups
Wednesday 14 May, 1:20 - 2:40PM
Moderators:
Dr. Harry E. Martz, Jr., Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, Livermore, CA
Panelists:
Todd Murray, University of Colorado
Wenbing Yun, Sigray
Ruth Sunderman, Kansas City National Security Campus
Todd Rumbaugh, Hadland Imaging (flash X-ray systems)
DESCRIPTION:
This panel will examine how collaboration among universities, government labs, companies, and emerging startups can accelerate the development and adoption of cutting-edge NDT technologies. Panelists will share insights on building effective educational programs, promoting open innovation, and creating pathways for knowledge exchange and technology transfer. The discussion will highlight successful models for mentorship, workforce development, and entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives and global cooperation.
By showcasing the latest advances and transformative approaches, this panel aims to inspire participants to innovate, adapt, and collaborate—ensuring that NDT remains at the forefront of solutions to complex global challenges. Attendees will gain practical strategies for fostering a dynamic NDT ecosystem, strengthening international ties, and shaping the future of the profession.
Bridging the Generation Gap: Empowering the Next Wave of NDT Professionals
Thursday 15 May, 10:20 - 11:40AM
Moderators:
Greg Garcia, Rocky Mountain Steel
Dennis Chai, Evident Scientific
Panelists:
Paul Lang, ASNT Certification Services
Jason Riggs, Marmon Rail
Ajay Pasupuleti, Ooga Technologies
John Stewart, AATA
DESCRIPTION:
This panel session discusses the topic of “Bridging the Generation Gap: Empowering the Next Wave of NDT Professionals.” Points of interest include the effectiveness of recruitment, retention, and mentorship of younger professionals in an aging NDT workforce.
The interactive discussion will also address innovations in training, certification, simulation-based learning, and on-the-job competency models.
Advancing the Natural Gas Infrastructure “Gold Rush” with NDE 4.0: Changes, Challenges, and Champions
Thursday 15 May, 1:20 - 2:40PM
Moderators:
Mike Childers, Program Manager/RD&D| Engineering Staff, Southwest Gas
Panelists:
Mike Childers, Program Manager/RD&D| Engineering Staff, Southwest Gas
DESCRIPTION:
The rapid expansion of data centers, driven by the artificial intelligence (AI) boom, is creating an enormous surge in electricity demand, with natural gas emerging as a primary power source due to its reliability, scalability, and speed of deployment. This presentation will address the interest and urgency to adopt advanced NDE 4.0, emerging technologies, quality inspection, and material testing and traceability programs, to meet the need for a safer, smarter, and more sustainable future.