Ben Wheeler is a self-made, Nondestructive Examination student who is set to graduate this May!

As a member of the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), Ben works to advance science, engineering, and technology in nondestructive testing to create a safer world. On top of being a member of the ASNT, Ben is a proud Paul Zayicek Memorial Scholarship recipient. The Paul Zayicek Memorial Scholarship was provided by the Charlotte Chapter of the ASNT, it is used exclusively to support the college by providing scholarship assistance to students enrolled in nondestructive examination technology.

Ben chose Central Piedmont because he wanted to earn a lasting career and save money at the same time. Originally, he was studying electrical engineering but soon decided he was not fulfilled with that route. “I spoke with Sarah Wilson at the Central Piedmont Harper Campus, and she informed me of my options. Sarah suggested nondestructive examination because she felt like it would be a perfect fit. I enrolled and never looked back,” says Ben.

The people at Central Piedmont have made Ben feel welcome and supported, giving him a sense of comfort. “With my degree, I hope to have the flexibility to grow across the board for each NDE process and to be the most reliable team member when things get complicated,” Ben explains.

It was Central Piedmont that not only helped me conquer possibility but revealed the possibility to me as well. With the drive, the support, and the recognition, Ben now has the satisfaction of saying, “I am respected as one of the best.”

Advice for future Central Piedmont students: “Make sure to find the right people to back you up and guide you. Build relationships with advisors, teachers, and other students.”