07/23/2026
In case you missed it🚨...
In the latest episode of Forged in Focus, I sat down with Joe Rodriguez, Regional Quality Manager with IRISNDT, now part of APAVE, to talk about the world of non-destructive testing and why it plays such a critical role in industrial manufacturing.
Joe’s path into the industry started after serving in the Marine Corps, followed by training at The Ocean Corporation and a same-day job offer from IRISNDT. From there, he worked his way from level one assistant to level two technician, dispatcher and now level three and regional quality manager.
We dug into what NDT really is, how the ASNT certification system
works and why level one, level two and level three roles each matter in the field. Joe also breaks down the difference between radiography, ultrasonic testing, liquid penetrant, magnetic particle testing, visual testing and other methods used to help keep equipment, piping and pressure vessels safe.
Joe shares perspective on building a quality culture in the field, especially when inspectors are working under tight schedules, turnaround pressure and customer expectations. He explains why NDT professionals have to hold the line, tell the truth and understand that their work directly impacts the life and safety of the equipment being inspected.
We also get into digital radiography, code interpretation, the shortage of experienced level two technicians, workforce development, mentorship and why young people, veterans and those considering a technical path should take a closer look at NDT.
This conversation is packed with insight on inspection, fabrication, quality, leadership and the people behind the work that helps hold American industrial manufacturing together.
If you build, inspect, operate or depend on industrial equipment, this episode is for you.
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🎧 Watch or listen to the full episode:
▶️ YouTube: https://youtu.be/Ra5I_oQCBok
🎙️ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4L1AGgh7ZSI5kpJBwDOWRx?si=tE0vlUQzTC6CFONGRqGTpQ
🍎 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/joe-rodriguez-on-advancing-quality-and-ndt-leadership/id1845866404?i=1000775027113