How to Build a Proper NDT Apprentice Program
As NDT is an ever-evolving field, it is imperative to build a strong apprentice program so you can train your best individuals for one of the industry’s most valuable skills. While going to school is required for certification, it is just part of the equation. Without the essential on-the-job training, you cannot be certified and everything you learn in school is all theory and no application. In my experience, it is actually easier to have the experience first as you absorb the classroom time so much better than if you have no on-the-job training.
Over the past three years, our apprentice program has brought 13 individuals up to NDT Level II Certification. This has allowed our company to be highly efficient throughout our aircraft inspection process. To run a proper apprentice program, you need to meet the following qualifications: proper workload to support the program, the ability to identify top individuals, and the time to spend with people in all areas required.
Since this is an ever-evolving industry, you need to have the proper workload to support your basic knowledge base. This is the type of skill that if you do not use, you lose. In addition, you need to be able to identify your top individuals. The best and brightest of your team will rise to the top and have a desire to push the program forward. Lastly, it takes time. Running this properly involves spending lots of time with your people. Keep in mind that each method has its own time required to be considered for certification.
Brian McKenzie started with Elliott Aviation in 2007 as a Quality Control Inspector and led the development of Elliott Aviation’s Accessory Shop in 2011. He received his A&P in 2004, IA in 2009 and ASNT NDT Level III in 2010. He has coached 16 people through NDT II level certification in the past three years. Brian started his career in the U.S. Navy where he was part of the fixed wing and rotor wing maintenance and aircrew. He has maintained airframes and components on a diverse number of aircraft including Beechcraft products, Gulfstreams, Citations, Falcons and helicopters. Brian has also worked for Aero Air, Evergreen International, Flightcraft and Jet Services Inc.
Elliott Aviation is a second-generation, family-owned business aviation company offering a complete menu of high quality products and services including aircraft sales, avionics service & installations, aircraft maintenance, accessory repair & overhaul, paint and interior, charter and aircraft management. Serving the business aviation industry nationally and internationally, they have facilities in Moline, IL, Des Moines, IA, and Minneapolis, MN. The company is a member of the Pinnacle Air Network, National Business Aviation Association (NBAA), National Air Transportation Association (NATA), and National Aircraft Resale Association (NARA).
