Avalos P-TECH School Alum Finds Success in NDT Industry

Disponible en: Español

AISD Class of 2023 grad and Avalos P-TECH School alum seen working in the NDT field.

Imagine a career that takes you across the country, challenges you to grow personally and professionally, and plays a critical role in community safety. This is the story of Emiliano Paz, an Avalos P-TECH School graduate who has succeeded in the growing field of nondestructive testing (NDT). At Aldine ISD’s Avalos Avalos Pathways in Technology Early College High (P-TECH) School, students can explore rewarding and impactful careers in five pathways: Computer Networking Specialization, Cybersecurity AA Degree, Paralegal Studies, Teaching and Training, and NDT.

For Emiliano Paz, a graduate of the school’s NDT program, this path has led to a fulfilling career filled with growth, challenges, and the chance to make a difference. His story is about determination, adaptability, and the power of his early training at Aldine ISD.

Eddie Pompa wrote the original story “NDT Advocacy in Action: Emiliano Paz,” published by the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT). Below are excerpts from the story:

Nondestructive testing (NDT) was introduced to the Aldine ISD over five years ago, with the opening of Avalos P-TECH School as a viable career pathway for students seeking meaningful work.

This program graduated its first NDT seniors in May 2023. For this article, I (Eddie Pompa) checked in with one of the graduates to learn more about how his NDT career has grown since then. This young man was determined to step out and challenge himself to find a job in NDT and discover what NDT had to offer.

Starting in a new field right after high school wasn’t easy for Emiliano. Like many recent graduates, he had to compete with more experienced candidates. But thanks to the hands-on training and connections he made at Avalos P-TECH, Emiliano secured his first job and began building a career that’s taking him places — literally!

In June 2023, Emiliano secured a position with IRISNDT just after graduating. This move would set the foundation for his burgeoning career. His initial employment seemed promising and filled with opportunities, but a “shut down” cycle meant there were some lean weeks, which led to some stress and frustration about his choice of employment. Emiliano remained patient, put forth his hard work ethic, and made himself available to take on any opportunities IRISNDT had for him. Since his early days, Emiliano’s career development has been marked by a continuous pursuit of certification and skill enhancement.

By 19, Emiliano became Level 2 certified in magnetic particle and ultrasonic thickness testing — skills in high demand in industries like aerospace, energy, and construction. His career has already taken him to North Dakota, Utah, and even nuclear facilities, proving that the possibilities in NDT are endless.

Such experiences have broadened his skill set and enriched his personal growth. During the shutdown work, he had the opportunity to inspect a nuclear reactor as part of a facility monitoring cycle. This activity reminded him of the importance of his role as an NDT professional and the safety he provides to the community by doing his job. This purpose drives him to do good work, and he enjoys the meaningful work his NDT career offers.

Despite the early challenges of limited work hours and low pay — which sometimes made Emiliano contemplate a career change — his perseverance paid off. He credits his success to patience and the drive to earn certifications that would open more doors. His story highlights the importance of not giving up, even when the road seems challenging.

Networking has also been crucial in Emiliano’s journey. He has used his connections to help others find employment, underscoring the importance of building and maintaining professional relationships. These relationships can be as valuable as technical skills in one’s career development. This is a reminder that success is often a collective effort, and the relationships we build can be instrumental in our career growth.

Emiliano is set on obtaining additional certifications, such as Shear Wave UT (SWUT), which will further enhance his expertise and career prospects. His journey is far from over, but his story is a powerful reminder that with determination, continuous learning, and building meaningful relationships, success in NDT is within reach for those willing to pursue it. Emiliano’s experience shows that the NDT journey is ongoing and full of growth potential for those considering a career in NDT.

Emiliano’s journey started at Avalos P-TECH School, where he discovered his passion for NDT and gained the tools to succeed. If you’re ready to explore a career combining technology, travel, and purpose, the NDT program at Avalos P-TECH might be your next step.