Hey Noah! It's awesome to have you here. To start, could you introduce yourself to our wonderful audience and share a bit about your journey in the tech industry?
My name is Noah McKernan and I am the President of NDT Products Limited, an NDT equipment distributor in Canada. I joined the family business out of university and have been here for 11 years now, holding a few different sales and management roles.
… we go way back, and I know you've had quite the journey. Can you share a moment in your career that made you think, "Wow, I've really come a long way"?
I think the 10 year mark was a big milestone. It is great to grow alongside our customers and watch new and old employees alike go through various stages of their careers.
... you've worn so many different hats over the years. What's the most surprising lesson you've learned from being the National Sales Manager to now being the President of NDT Products?
I think accountability is paramount. Any employee should have accountability in their position, but moving into a president/ownership role, you realize that everything stops with you.
… speaking of leadership, if you could invite any three leaders, past or present, to a dinner party, who would they be and what would you ask them? Oh, and what would be on the menu?
Gary Vaynerchuk, Bobby Hundreds and Alex Hormozi. I enjoy learning from people in a variety of different industries, sectors and points in their career. I think it is important to have a mix of tactical business inspiration as well as emotional/creative inspiration.
The non-destructive testing world is always changing. What's one trend or technology that has you geeking out right now?
I definitely have my eye on UAV/Robotic technologies and how (or how much) they are going to impact the traditional inspection methods.
… can you tell us about a project at NDT Products that made you think, "This is why I get up in the morning"? Maybe one that had you doing a little happy dance?
I love any time that we can be a part of a complete project for a customer, from the beginning to the end and supporting them every step of the way. I was/am involved in 2 projects like that - a tank car manufacturer and turbine facility.
We all know things don't always go as planned. Can you share a time when a project went sideways, but your quick thinking turned it into a win? Bonus points if it’s a funny story!
Things don't go as planned every day! but no specific story comes to mind
… on a more whimsical note, if you had a superpower to solve one major industry challenge, what would it be and how would you use it?
Better economics for everyone involved:)
… creating a great work environment is so important. What's one fun or quirky thing you do to keep the team spirit high at NDT Products?
We try to have company outings or parties whenever we can! Our most recent was a trip to a Toronto Blue Jays game.
… how do you stay on top of industry trends and advancements? Any favorite blogs, podcasts, or books that you just can't get enough of?
Mostly following people and companies on LinkedIn. Things like OneStop are a great resource.
Noah, mentorship is key. Who has been a significant mentor in your life, and what's the best piece of advice they've given you that still makes you chuckle or think today?
Within this industry, probably my Dad. We are definitely different people but I think that has helped me grow as a business owner.
… for those just starting in the tech industry, what's one piece of advice you wish you had received early on? And maybe a funny lesson learned the hard way?
I would say hard work and accountability are great traits, no matter what stage of your career.
… let's lighten things up—when you're not being the tech wizard extraordinaire, how do you unwind? Any hobbies or guilty pleasures we should know about?
My family! I have 2 young boys and any time outside of work is spent with them.
… how do your personal interests and hobbies influence your professional life? Any surprising crossovers or funny stories?
Very little cross over, but I do always try to make the most of any work trips! Finding great restaurants or sporting events is usually my go-to.
… last one, a fun one—if you could describe your journey in the tech industry with a movie title, what would it be and why?
Can't think of one, but hopefully just getting started
Finally, platforms like OnestopNDT are growing in popularity. How do you see these platforms shaping the future of our industry, and how do they bring value to professionals like yourself? Noah, it's been an absolute blast chatting with you. Thanks for all the laughs and insights! Looking forward to seeing the amazing things you'll continue to do at NDT Products!
I think platforms like this provide a great forum for like minded individuals to learn, connect and grow within the industry.
