In Memorium

Professor Peter Trampus

With deep sorrow, we received the sad news from Budapest regarding the passing of our beloved brother, friend, mentor, and Academia President, Prof. Peter Trampus.

Peter was a member of the global NDT community, dedicated to the advancement of NDT sciences and engineering worldwide. He committed his life to serving that community through the Academia NDT International, the Hungarian NDT Society, EFNDT, ICNDT and ASNT, to name but a few. His service was not limited by geographical or political boundaries. He touched many lives, so much so that the news of his passing will travel like a shockwave of grief, surprise and disbelief, faster than e-mails can be written.

On a personal level, each one of us will feel the loss as their own. For his Academia family, Peter’s loss took a deeper meaning. Peter served the Academia NDT International from its inception to his very last days, as founder, Council member and President.

Battling a terminal illness, he stepped down from the presidency in early March 2025, and participated in our most recent Academia Council meeting, 21 days before his passing, to discuss the transition of his responsibilities. He seemed fine during the video call; no one suspected it would be the last time we see or talk to him. Now we know it was a moment of humbling dignity.

May you rest in peace Peter.

You will be deeply missed.

Respectfully,

Shant Kenderian

Interim President

Academia NDT International

Dr Sotirios J. Vahaviolos

With profound sorrow we mourn the passing of Dr Sotirios J. Vahaviolos, a visionary leader, a pioneer in non-destructive testing and a cherished founding member of Academia NDT International. His immense contributions to the field and unwavering dedication to advancing the science of NDT have left an indelible mark on the industry and our organisation.

Dr Vahaviolos was not only a brilliant scientist and entrepreneur but also a mentor, an innovator and an inspiration to generations of professionals in our field. His pioneering work in acoustic emission and NDT technologies transformed industries, ensuring the safety and reliability of critical infrastructure worldwide. His leadership and vision helped shape the foundation of Academia NDT International, fostering knowledge exchange, research and professional development across borders.

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, colleagues and the Mistras group, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His legacy will live on in the countless contributions he made to NDT and in the work of those he inspired.

Rest in peace, dear friend and esteemed colleague.