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For veterans, transitioning out of military service can be a gateway to a new career, but it's not always an easy one to choose. Veterans can bring a lot of experience to the table when it comes to safety, equipment maintenance, technical procedures, and working under pressure. A career in Non Destructive Testing can build on those skills while providing training for specialized inspection work.
Radiology NDT Training may be a course of interest for a veteran who has an interest in technology, manufacturing, aerospace, energy, or industrial inspection. Radiographic Testing uses X rays or gamma rays to examine the internal condition of materials and components without damaging them.
What Does an X Ray Inspector Do?
Industrial X Ray Inspector can work in the area of Radiographic Testing to inspect components like welds, pipes, castings and structural parts for internal discontinuities.
These duties can include, but are not limited to:
- Setting up radiographic equipment
- Following radiation safety procedures
- Producing radiographic images
- Evaluating images for relevant indications
- Following inspection procedures and applicable codes
- Recording and reporting inspection results
Concentration, technical knowledge, careful documentation and dedication to safety are required.
Why Radiology NDT Training Can Be a Good Fit for Veterans
Military experience can lead to career opportunities in inspection, and a lot of the skills are transferable. Veterans are likely to have experience following procedures, maintaining equipment, recording work, and working in safety-critical environments.
A structured Radiology NDT Training program may provide additional knowledge regarding radiation principles, radiographic equipment, image quality, radiation protection, and image interpretation.
Depending on the training program, other NDT techniques may be introduced to the student as well, such as Ultrasonic Testing, Magnetic Particle Testing and Liquid Penetrant Testing.
The goal is not to replace military experience. Rather, proper training can lead to the transfer of current skills to a civilian technical career.
Can the GI Bill Help Pay for NDT Training?
There are some specific education and career training programs that may be eligible for the GI Bill. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, GI Bill benefits can be used for specific career or trade training, certain licensing and certification tests and preparation courses.
But not all NDT schools and training courses are eligible to receive GI Bill benefits. Veterans should check on the particular school and program in question from VA's resources before signing up. VA suggests using the GI Bill Comparison Tool to learn more about VA's approved education and training options.
This is a requirement as it can be dependent on the different institution, program and type of training.
So, what does ‘Radiology NDT Training' cover?
Any good program should offer theory, as well as training. Common topics can be:
Radiation Fundamentals
Students are taught the interaction of x rays and gamma rays with materials and how distance, exposure and material thickness all impact the results of the inspection.
Radiographic Equipment
Depending on the program, training may be offered on the operation and setup of industrial X ray equipment or radioactive source systems.
Radiation Safety
Safety plays a key role in training since it is a concern in industrial radiography. Students are taught radiation control procedures to minimize the risk of radiation exposure of workers and the public.
Image Interpretation
The most important skill is to be able to interpret radiographs. Students are taught to identify when the indications are relevant and when they are not acceptable, or image artifacts.
Practical Inspection
Hands on exercises give students the opportunity to apply what they learned in class and use inspection equipment and test specimens.
How Quick can a Veteran become Qualified?
The duration of the timeline will be determined by factors such as training program, employer needs, certification system, previous work experience and hours of work required. While there is a generic sequence of training courses, these do not ensure that someone will be a qualified Level II inspector at the end of any specific training course.
Veterans should therefore be cautious of programs promising instant certification or guaranteed employment.
A more effective way to do this is to seek the training provider's advice:
- How many hours are in the classroom time?
- How many practice hours are included?
- What certification program(s) is this program accredited by?
- What training requirements do there need to be following the experience period?
- Does the program qualify for the VA benefit that I am going to use?
- What type of career support is available?
Knowing this information before signing up will help avoid any unnecessary expenses or delays.
GI Bill Benefits for Certification Testing
Currently, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) says that it will cover the cost of some of its approved licensing and certification exams, with qualifying test fees reimbursed up to $2,000 per exam. The VA should be consulted prior to taking an exam to determine eligibility and approved tests.
The VA also reimburses some approved courses for preparation, for eligible beneficiaries.
May be useful for veterans seeking a technical career where an established course of studies or examinations are required as part of the hiring process.
Options for Veteran Training Programs
Not all veteran training programs are designed the same way. When selecting a Radiographic Testing course, look for practical training, curriculum, instructor credentials, certification preparation, course schedule, overall cost, and career resources.
As well, it is crucial to differentiate between marketing statements and actual facts. A school may advertise high salaries or fast employment, but actual results can vary based on location, experience, certification, industry, and employer requirements.
The school does not guarantee or determine VA eligibility or benefit coverage and veterans should check for themselves.
A Practical Transition Path
There are several steps a veteran can take to make the transition to an industrial X ray inspector:
1. Review your military experience
Look for experience gained in technical, maintenance, inspection, safety or equipment aspects that can be transferred to civilian duties.
2. Research Radiographic Testing
Be aware of the task, workplace, safety and certification needs.
3. Compare training programs.
Search for programs which provide class-based instruction as well as applicable hands-on training.
4. Check GI Bill eligibility.
Verify eligibility of the particular program and school before any financial commitment.
5. Complete required training and experience.
Meet the certification and employer requirements for your desired level of certification.
6. Build your civilian resume.
Tell about your military experience with civilian terms that will capture the role you held.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can veterans use the GI Bill for Radiology NDT Training?
Possibly. Depending on the program and the veteran's benefits, some career and technical training programs may be approved for GI Bill benefits. Check program in VA resources prior to enrollment.
Is a 4 year college degree mandatory to obtain a career in NDT?
A lot of NDT technician jobs require training, experience and employer/certification requirements rather than a 4-year college degree. Specifications differ based upon employer and position.
Is Radiographic Testing the same as medical X ray work?
No. Industrial Radiographic Testing is used to investigate materials and components like welds and metal parts. Medical radiography uses medical imaging to produce images of the human body and is regulated and trained in a different way.
Does military experience qualify for an NDT job?
It can. Work experience in equipment maintenance, aviation, engineering, inspection, safety procedures or technical documentation can be beneficial. Previous experience may count toward any requirement based on the individual certification and the employer.
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