Cutting Through the Noise
in Nondestructive Testing™
Jim Treat
In Loving Memory of Jim Treat: A Legend in Nondestructive Testing
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Jim Treat, a monumental figure in the field of Nondestructive Testing (NDT), whose legacy will forever shape the industry he loved so deeply. Known as a visionary and pioneer, Jim transformed the business world of NDT through his hard work, indomitable spirit, and enduring commitment to excellence.
As the co-founder of Longview Inspection, Inc., which later evolved into the global leader Acuren, Jim not only built a business but laid the foundation for modern NDT practices that continue to influence the industry worldwide. His vast contributions didn’t end there; Jim was a trusted advisor and board member for numerous companies over the years, including Premium Testing and Inspection, Sensor Networks, Eddyfi Technologies, and We-NDT Marketing Network, among countless others. His expertise, wisdom, and leadership were sought after by all corners of the field.
Beyond his professional achievements, Jim was a dedicated leader, serving as a past President of the Nondestructive Testing Management Association (NDTMA). His influence on NDT extended to future generations as well. Recently, Jim, alongside his lifelong friend and colleague Chuck Hellier, pioneered on-line NDT training by co-founding NDT Classroom and, most recently, they endowed a scholarship for the ASNT Foundation, ensuring that his passion for the industry would live on through the education of others.
More than just a professional giant, Jim was a mentor to so many, generously offering guidance and support to countless individuals. He leaves behind a community of friends and colleagues who cherished his larger-than-life personality, infectious enthusiasm, warm heart, and in-depth phone calls. His impact on the people around him is impossible to quantify, but it is clear that the void left by his passing is immeasurable.
Jim Treat was more than a leader; he was a legend.
His contributions to NDT will echo for generations, and his memory will forever inspire those who had the honor of knowing him. The world of Nondestructive Testing has lost one of its greatest champions, but his spirit will remain a guiding light for all who follow in his footsteps. Rest in peace, Jim. You will be deeply missed.
Jim was a highly respected leader and a friend. Jim recruited me into NDI back in 1981. To this day I am still in the NDI aerospace sector and still think back to the good ole days in Midland Tx. God Bless you Jim.
Look at the people that just spoke to Jim before he passed. I had virtually the same conversation two days prior. He sounded good and he definitely sounded like he was ready to get out. I knew Jim and Marcelle both and I am a better person because of this. I do want to correct one part of the article and note that Jim was one of the founders of Longview Inspection. When we spoke of old times, he was always quick to give Glen Davis equal credit for the success and growth of Longview Inspection! Those two were formidable partners in the NDT world.
I want to share just a little story that many of us employees experienced with Jim. I think we all know what it is like to go into the office to have the talk, the talk of asking for a raise. We would walk into his office with grit and determination. We had all our talking points in our head. These were the days before the annual written reviews, these were the days where you simply talked to each other. Well needless to say I always walked out of his office with a smile, feeling good, positive and ready to give it my all for the company. We employees basically shared the same story over and over again. We went in with a plan and we walked out feeling good, we can state that we got to negotiate with a great businessman. He was a businessman who had just begun doing great things. Rest Easy Jim, you are already missed.
Richard
Jim was a kind and quiet soul, When he spoke you listened. I didn't know Jim long but for the short time I was associated with him he was always able to help.
We will miss him greatly.
Gary D Larson
Almost 8 years ago, Jim welcomed me with open arms into the NDT world. He was a kind man with whom it was possible to imagine and shape the future of NDT. I will look back to many enlightening conversations we shared (and industry events we walked together) with great fondness. Veronique Chayer
Jim was a Mentor to me and he will be greatly missed. I just spoke to him a week ago and we were planning a dinner for when he got out of the hospital. It is a very sad day for me with his passing. I will miss our phone calls we had often. He definitely left an impression on many of us. Rest in peace my friend.
Bruce A Stetler