The world of Non-Destructive Testing (NDT) and Non-Destructive Evaluation (NDE) is evolving at an incredible pace, and few professionals have navigated its transformation quite like Mr. Kuldeep Sharma. With nearly two decades of experience, he has made his mark across industries like oil & gas, aerospace, and manufacturing, mastering cutting-edge inspection techniques, training the next generation of NDT professionals, and implementing quality systems at vendor sites worldwide.
But Mr. Kuldeep’s journey into NDT was anything but conventional—it started as an unexpected opportunity that quickly turned into a lifelong passion. From his first role as an NDT Inspector to leading high-stakes on-stream inspections and pioneering NDE 4.0 innovations, his career has been defined by curiosity, precision, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
In this exclusive conversation, we explore his career-defining moments, the impact of AI and digitalization in NDT, his approach to leadership and training, and what’s next for the industry. Whether you’re an industry veteran or just stepping into the world of NDT, Mr. Kuldeep’s insights are sure to inspire. Let’s dive in!
Welcome to OnestopNDT, Mr. Kuldeep ! We’re absolutely thrilled to have you here today. Your experience and insights are sure to inspire our audience. Let’s dive right in.
Kicking things off, can you walk us through your incredible journey of almost two decades in various industries including NDT and NDE? What sparked your initial interest in this field, and what keeps you passionate about it today?
My journey into the world of NDT (Non-Destructive Testing) and NDE (Non-Destructive Evaluation) began quite unexpectedly in 2004. At the time, I was pursuing my Master’s in Physics and, honestly, had no idea what NDT was. One day, I decided to attend an interview at Jindal Saw Ltd. in Koshi Kalan, India, more out of curiosity than anything else. They were setting up a new plant in Gujarat and looking for fresh talent. To my surprise, they offered me a role as an NDT Inspector. I remember thinking, “What is NDT?”—it was the first time I’d even heard the term! However, they sponsored my NDT Level II certification, and that unexpected encounter was what led me to me diving into this field.
It started as a chance opportunity that quickly turned into a lifelong passion. Over the past two decades, I’ve worked across industries, from oil and gas to manufacturing, and collaborated with some of the most talented professionals in the field.
What keeps me passionate about NDT and NDE today is its incredible impact on ensuring safety, quality, and reliability in industries that keep the world running.
The NDT world has evolved tremendously over the past two decades. What’s one game-changing technology or advancement that has completely transformed the way you work?
The transformation from NDE 2.0 to NDE 3.0 was one of the biggest game-changers for me and the entire NDT industry. It was the era when digitalization truly took off, bringing in technologies like phased array ultrasound, digital radiography, and TOFD (Time of Flight Diffraction). These advancements made our work as NDT professionals not only more accurate but also much easier.
But now, as we step into the era of NDE 4.0, the way we work as NDT professionals is undergoing a complete transformation. One of the most exciting advancements for me has been the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and machine learning into NDT. AI-powered tools are revolutionizing how we analyze data, predict defects, and even automate inspections. AI has so much potential in this field, and I can’t wait to see how it revolutionized this field.
Training and certifying NDT operators is a big part of your role. If you had to build the ‘perfect’ NDT professional, what key traits and skills would they need?
To build the ‘perfect’ NDT professional, I’d focus on a mix of practical skills, the right mindset, and sector-specific knowledge. For me, practical training is far more important than theoretical training. While theory gives you the foundation, it’s the hands-on experience that really prepares you for the real-world challenges of NDT. Even in theoretical training, I believe in keeping it concise and focused on what’s actually needed to perform the job. For example, if someone is going to work in oil and gas, they should be trained on techniques applied to pipelines, not aerospace components. This kind of sector-specific training ensures they’re ready for the path they intend to take with a vast set of skills that they are prepared to apply.
In short, the perfect NDT professional is a blend of practical expertise, a curious mind, and the ability to adapt and communicate in a fast-changing industry. And, of course, they should be trained specifically for the sector they’re working in so that they are fully capable in their field!
You’ve conducted external audits and helped implement quality systems at vendor sites. What are the most common red flags you see, and what’s your go-to advice for vendors looking to step up their compliance game?
In my experience conducting external audits, the most common red flags I’ve seen are inconsistent documentation and lack of proper calibration. Many vendors struggle with maintaining up-to-date records, whether it’s inspection reports, procedure approvals, or calibration logs. Another frequent issue is inadequate training—NDT personnel sometimes lack the specific skills or certifications needed for the job, as mentioned in the previous question, which can lead to errors in inspections.
My go-to advice for vendors is simple: focus on the basics first. Start by ensuring all documentation is accurate, organized, and easily accessible. Implement a robust calibration schedule and stick to it. Documentation is the foundation of this type of work and is what will ultimately lead to success.
Finally, don’t treat audits as a one-time event. Build a culture of continuous improvement where compliance is part of everyday operations. Small, consistent steps can make a huge difference in stepping up your compliance game.
On-stream inspections—especially in Oil & Gas and Aerospace—are high-stakes operations where failure isn’t an option. Can you share a moment when an inspection didn’t go as planned and how you tackled the challenge?
Absolutely! Once, during a pipeline project, we detected a defect using automatic and manual ultrasonic testing, but every other method—digital radiography, micro samples—showed nothing. It seemed impossible to figure out. The defect appeared on every pipe, and the results are contradictory in different NDT methods. We didn’t want to halt production without solid proof, but I had this doubt.
After days of testing, endless micro-analysis, and stressful nights, I finally caught the defect by using Magnetic Particle Inspection (MPI)—but only after carefully buffing the surface. Turns out, it was a microscopic crack in a very specific location. Once we knew where to look, even the earlier micro samples confirmed it. But by then, we’d already produced seven days’ worth of pipes, and the entire lot had to be rejected.
That experience taught me a tough lesson: always act on doubt, even if it’s tiny. In high-stakes industries, waiting for "100% proof" can cost way more than pausing to investigate. Now, I tell my team: “Always go with your gut if you feel that something is wrong!”
Leading NDT teams isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about strategy. What’s your secret to ensuring teams maintain top-notch accuracy and efficiency, even under pressure?
I completely agree—leading an NDT team isn’t just about having strong technical skills; it’s about smart strategy. As a leader, I believe it’s important to focus on every individual’s strengths and weaknesses because what works for one person might not work for another. Competency is key. When your team members are highly skilled, understand the consequences of errors, and are aware of what they’re doing, they can adapt to any situation.
I make sure my team feels supported by keeping communication open. We discuss even the small details when needed, so everyone understands the overall goals and the impact of their work. This approach helps ensure that we maintain top-notch accuracy and efficiency, even under pressure. A well-oiled team is both informed and competent.
You’ve mentored countless NDT professionals over the years. Is there one mentee’s journey that stands out—someone who made you proud and reminded you why mentorship matters?
Yes! Over the years, I've had the privilege of mentoring many NDT professionals, especially in the USA. I've hired more than 70 individuals who initially had little or no NDT experience. What truly stands out are the trainees. One mentee pursued his passion by earning a PhD related to NDT topic, and today he’s a professor developing innovative NDT courses that are shaping the future of our field. Two others, after completing their Level-III certifications, grew into key leaders in their organizations. Their success reminds me that mentorship isn’t about applying the same strategy to everyone but ensuring that we look at each person’s unique skill set. This makes it so that anyone can excel in this field.
Let’s be honest—Quality Assurance sometimes meets resistance in the field. How do you manage pushback while ensuring quality standards don’t take a backseat?
I believe the best way is to build a sustainable system where digital tools play a major role. We set a clear schedule that everyone sticks to, and we prioritize training—especially for those not directly accountable for QA. By creating an environment where QA isn’t seen as a hurdle but as an essential value-add, we help our team understand that organized processes make it easier to complete tasks. When every step is digitalized and planned, quality becomes a natural part of our workflow rather than an obstacle.
Every leader has a defining lesson that shapes their approach to management. If you could pick just one, what’s the biggest leadership lesson you’ve learned in your career?
The biggest lesson I’ve learned is that a detailed and clear plan is essential before making any changes. I always ask myself “why” for every step and pay attention to even the smallest details—because understanding the effects of each move makes a huge difference. When you take the time to plan thoroughly, you’re not only prepared for potential challenges but also able to present your ideas with clarity. This approach has helped me lead more effectively and ensure that every change is well thought.
What first sparked your interest in NDT? Was there a defining moment or experience that made you realize, ‘This is the field for me’?
Honestly, my journey into NDT started by accident as I mentioned. It started in 2004 but the real turning point came years later when I learned about NDT Level-III. It sounded like the highest level in this field. So I worked on it and earned my Level-III certifications by 2010. During those studies, something clicked. I started seeing NDT not just as a job, but as a mission—ensuring safety, preventing disasters, and solving puzzles hidden deep within materials.
That’s when I fell in love with the field. The more I learned, the more I realized how important NDT is to industries like oil and gas, aerospace, and manufacturing. Today, every inspection, and every defect I uncover, reminds me why I chose this path. It shapes my reason for doing this job to this day because I am able to view it as something that will give back to society.
If life had taken you down a completely different road, what career do you think you’d be pursuing today? (And would it be as exciting as NDT?)
If I hadn’t stumbled into NDT, I’d probably be a physics professor today. I have aways enjoyed teaching and I even get to do it in NDT by training teams and mentoring new professionals. I’m not sure it would be as interesting as NDT because even though I love to teach, NDT is simply the field meant for me.
You operate in high-stakes industries—Nuclear, Aerospace, Oil & Gas—where even the smallest error can have major consequences. How do you personally handle stress, and what keeps you motivated?
Stress is part of the job in industries like these, but I’ve found simple ways to manage it. For me, it's my family. Every day when I go home they help the stress drain away and talking with friends also helps me relax. Without these people in my life, I would definitely be overwhelmed
What keeps me going is knowing that my work directly impacts safety and quality—like catching a microscopic crack that could prevent a disaster. Training the next generation of NDT professionals also gives me purpose. Every time I mentor someone or see a team member grow, it reminds me why this field matters. Plus, the thrill of innovation—like integrating AI into inspections—keeps things exciting.
My advice? Fall in love with the process, not just the outcome. When you care deeply about the "how" and "why" of your work, stress becomes a challenge to conquer, not a burden. And remember: even in high-stakes environments, progress happens one step at a time. Trust that what you do is making an impact.
Is there a book, movie, or even a personal experience that completely changed your perspective—professionally or personally?
My favourites in movies and books always change, but I’m endlessly fascinated by stories of innovation—and even accidents—that shaped the NDT world. For example, Discovery of X-Ray and accidents that happened in the initial discovery and uses phase taught me how critical our work is. Those tragedies weren’t just lessons in engineering; they were wake-up calls for the entire industry to prioritize safety and precision.
On a personal note, early in my career, I also made a lot of mistakes and wrong interpretations and those were humbling moments that made me realize: that progress in NDT isn’t just about advancing technology—it’s about learning from the past. That’s why I love diving into the history of NDE, from the analog days of NDE 1.0 to today’s AI-driven NDE 4.0. Every phase has challenges and it’s important to overcome them.
With the growing demand for NDT professionals, what’s your golden advice for young engineers stepping into this industry? How can they stand out in this competitive field?
Be a sponge, not a certificate collector:
Certifications open doors, but curiosity opens minds. Master multiple methods (UT, RT, MPI)—don’t just stick to one. The engineer who can spot a defect with ultrasound and interpret radiography will always stand out.
Think like a detective, not a technician:
NDT isn’t just about ticking boxes. Ask: “Why did this defect form? How can we prevent it?” Early in my career, a microscopic crack almost slipped through because we didn’t dig deep enough.
Embrace the “boring” details:
Calibration logs, audits, documentation—they’re not flashy, but they’re the backbone of quality. I’ve seen brilliant inspectors fail audits because they overlooked paperwork.
Chase mentors, not job titles:
Find someone who’s been held back by this before. I still call my old mentors when I’m stuck. And pay it forward—teach others.
Get fluent in NDE 4.0:
AI and machine learning aren’t replacing us—they’re making us sharper. Learn to work with robots.
Zooming out a bit—what do you see as the biggest challenges facing the NDT industry today? And more importantly, what do we need to do to overcome these challenges and drive innovation forward?
The biggest challenges in NDT aren’t just technical—they’re often hidden in plain sight. Early in my career, I faced many situations in which one NDT method caught defects but others showed no issues. In many situations NDT Team let it slip because the team wasn’t cross-trained in multiple methods. This shows knowledge gaps in NDT—technicians mastering one method but missing others.
Non-technical challenges are equally crippling. For instance, many managers outside NDT see us as a “cost” rather than a safeguard. I’ve seen plants prioritize speed over safety because leadership didn’t understand how a tiny crack could lead to a disaster.
Another issue? Sector-specific training. Training an aerospace NDT pro with oil-and-gas techniques is like teaching a chef to bake using car manuals—it just doesn’t work. We need tailored programs, not overall certifications.
So, how do we fix this?
Bridge the knowledge gap: Cross-train pros in multiple methods. A defect missed by UT might show up in MPI.
Educate decision-makers: Use plain language to show how NDT saves money (and lives) long term.
Create industry-specific training hubs: Let aerospace experts train aerospace teams, and oil-and-gas veterans guide pipeline inspectors.
Build a “NDT Wikipedia”: A global platform where pros share failures, fixes, and innovations.
Value experience: A 20-year veteran’s gut instinct is as vital as a robot’s algorithm. Pair seasoned pros with new tech—wisdom meets innovation.
Most importantly, connects researchers and field crews. Once, I worked with a brilliant AI tool developed in a lab, but it failed in the field because researchers didn’t account for pipeline rust. Collaboration isn’t optional—it’s survival.
Let’s create a culture where industries and companies openly share both their accidents and achievements. Imagine if every pipeline failure, aerospace near-miss, or groundbreaking innovation in NDT was documented and discussed openly. When we learn from each other’s mistakes and successes—whether it’s a calibration error that caused a shutdown or an AI tool that halved inspection time—we grow faster, smarter, and safer together. Don’t be embarrassed by your failures.
After 20+ years in the industry, what’s next for you? Are there any cutting-edge NDT technologies or trends that have you genuinely excited for the future?
For me, the next chapter isn’t just about new tech—it’s about solving the invisible problems. After two decades, I’ve realized the biggest gaps in NDT aren’t always technical—they’re about people and awareness. Here’s where I want to focus:
“Why does NDT even matter?”
I want to make NDT relatable to folks who’ve never held an ultrasonic probe. Think CEOs, policymakers, even the public! Imagine short films or animations (in multiple languages!) that show how a tiny crack we catch today prevents a pipeline rupture tomorrow. If a plant manager sees NDT as a partner, not a cost, they’ll stop rushing inspections to meet deadlines.
Training without borders:
I dream of a platform like “NDT Netflix” where a technician in India can learn phased array in Hindi, while someone in Brazil trains in Portuguese. No language barriers, just pure knowledge sharing. How cool would that be?
The road ahead? It’s not just robots and algorithms. It’s about making NDT visible, accessible, and human. And honestly? I can’t wait to dance in the NDE 4.0 era—where every inspection tells a story, and every technician feels like a superhero.
And finally—bringing it back to OnestopNDT! How do you see platforms like ours making a real difference in the NDT community? What can we do to help professionals connect, learn, and grow even more effectively?
Platforms like OnestopNDT are real game-changers for our community. They serve as a central hub where professionals can easily connect, share ideas, and access the latest industry insights and training. I'm especially grateful to Mr. Govid W for his vision and leadership—his contributions have truly made a difference.
By keeping the platform engaging and user-friendly, and by hosting webinars, Q&A sessions, and networking events, you help us not only stay informed but also grow together. Sharing success stories and best practices further inspires everyone to push the boundaries of excellence in NDT.
Thank you, OnestopNDT, and thanks to Mr. Govid W, for creating a space that empowers us to connect, learn, and grow every day.
