Program Purpose
The Nondestructive Testing Technology program - is designed to prepare you for careers in industries ranging from aerospace, chemical and petrochemical, welding and the military. Graduates would perform duties as a level II nondestructive metal testing technician.
Graduates are prepared to use industry standards to perform noninvasive metal testing methods including acoustic emission, neutron radiography, penetrant leaking, thermography, eddy current and ultrasonics to determine the acceptability or safety of materials and processes. You’ll learn how to locate a defect in an aircraft fuselage or a refinery pipeline without damaging those components.
Specialized courses for this program include Ultrasonics, Liquid Penetrant/Magnetic Particle Testing, Metallurgy, Corrosion, Eddy Current and Radiography.

Students majoring in welding, industrial machining and aviation maintenance may also benefit from integrating Nondestructive Testing courses into their curriculum. Del Mar College offers new, specialized laboratories that incorporate the latest in metal testing technology.

Earnings and Opportunities
In the next five years, the need for qualified Nondestructive Testing graduates in Texas will grow by more than 2,000 professionals. Del Mar College is the only educational institution within a 170-mile radius offering a certificate in Nondestructive Testing. Career opportunities range from commercial aviation and shipbuilding, petroleum and chemical refineries, the military and the Corpus Christi Army Depot.

The curriculum concludes with an internship that will allow you to explore local career opportunities while perfecting your skills. Internships often lead to entry-level jobs.
According to the Nondestructive Testing Resource Center, graduates can expect starting salaries of $25,000 to $45,000 depending on job responsibilities and location.

Working Conditions
Aircraft mechanics usually work in hangars or in other indoor areas. When hangars are full or when repairs must be made quickly, they can work outdoors, sometimes in unpleasant weather. Mechanics often work under time pressure to maintain flight schedules or, in general aviation, to keep from inconveniencing customers. At the same time, mechanics have a tremendous responsibility to maintain safety standards, and this can cause the job to be stressful.
Frequently, mechanics must lift or pull objects weighing more than 70 pounds. They often stand, lie, or kneel in awkward positions and occasionally must work in precarious positions, such as on scaffolds or ladders. Noise and vibration are common when engines are being tested, so ear protection is necessary. Aircraft mechanics usually work 40 hours a week on 8-hour shifts around the clock. Overtime work is frequent

Degree Plans
Certificate: Aviation Maintenance - Nondestructive Testing Technology