MISTRAS Group, Inc. (NYSE: MG), a global leader in non-destructive testing (NDT) and asset protection solutions, is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its Founder, Chairman Emeritus, and Board Director, Dr. Sotirios J. Vahaviolos, on February 6, 2025.
A Pioneer in Non-Destructive Testing and Asset Protection
Dr. Vahaviolos founded MISTRAS (originally Physical Acoustics Corporation) in 1978 and dedicated over 40 years to building the company into a world-renowned provider of NDT, acoustic emission (AE) technologies, and comprehensive asset protection solutions. His innovative vision and steadfast commitment to excellence transformed industry standards and laid the foundation for a culture of continuous innovation at MISTRAS that endures to this day.
Manny Stamatakis, Executive Chairman of the Board, remarked, “On behalf of the entire MISTRAS family, we express our profound gratitude for Dr. Vahaviolos’ immeasurable contributions. He built a diversified enterprise that now employs over 5,000 people across the U.S., Canada, and beyond. A man of honor and integrity, his legacy in non-destructive testing and asset protection will be deeply missed.”
Seamless Leadership Transition and Ongoing Innovation
Under Dr. Vahaviolos’ guidance, MISTRAS Group ensured a smooth leadership transition, safeguarding the company’s strategic direction. MISTRAS will continue its operations without interruption, remaining committed to delivering innovative, technology-enabled asset protection solutions that support critical industrial and civil infrastructures worldwide.
A Legacy of Excellence in Engineering and NDT
Prior to establishing MISTRAS, Dr. Vahaviolos excelled as a scientist and manager at AT&T Bell Laboratories, developing advanced electrical engineering and NDT technologies. He earned his B.S. in Electrical Engineering from Fairleigh Dickinson University—graduating at the top of his class—and his M.S., M.Phil., and Ph.D. from Columbia University School of Engineering. His career achievements include being named a Fellow of IEEE, the American Society for Nondestructive Testing (ASNT), and the Acoustic Emission Working Group (AEWG). He also served as ASNT’s President (1992-1993) and Chairman (1993-1994), receiving Gold Medals from both ASNT (2001) and AEWG (2005) in recognition of his groundbreaking work.
Advancing Global NDT Education and Innovation
Dr. Vahaviolos was also a founding member of NDT Academia International in 2008, underscoring his lifelong commitment to advancing nondestructive testing methodologies on a global scale. His legacy continues to influence industry practices, foster innovation, and inspire future generations in the fields of NDT and asset protection.
Honoring a Remarkable Life and Enduring Legacy
In the days ahead, the MISTRAS Group family will celebrate Dr. Vahaviolos’ extraordinary contributions to the industry and honor his enduring legacy. Our heartfelt thoughts and prayers are with his wife, family, and friends during this difficult time.
About MISTRAS Group, Inc.
MISTRAS Group, Inc. (NYSE: MG) is a leading multinational provider of integrated, technology-enabled asset protection solutions. Specializing in non-destructive testing (NDT), inspection, and real-time monitoring, MISTRAS safeguards critical industrial and civil assets across oil and gas, aerospace and defense, renewable and nonrenewable power, civil infrastructure, and manufacturing industries. With a strong commitment to innovation and Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, MISTRAS delivers unmatched services that help maximize operational uptime and ensure the safety of civilization’s essential infrastructure. For more information, visit www.mistrasgroup.com.
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