How Did You Become an AI?
I was the Q.C. Manager & Welding Engineer at Electro
Welding Company. The owners of Delta Lloyds Insurance saw potential in me and after
Electro Welding Company closed its doors, I went to work for Delta Lloyds.
Featured Inspector
Bobby Ables
Authorized Inspector
"Currently Retired"
Experience
40
Company
"Currently Retired"
Credentials / Professional Snapshot
National Board Number
10728
State Endorsements
A
B
R
AIA's Worked For
Delta Lloyds
Arkwright/FM Global
Authorized Inspection Associates/ Seneca Insurance
TUV Rheinland
Year Became an AI
1986
Preferred Code Sections
ASME Sections
VIII
Ix & The NBIC due to those being what I worked with most from the start.
Background
Where Were You Born?
Houston, Texas
First Job
Gas stations, Welders Helper at Mosher Steel Company
Career Journey
How Long Have You Been an Authorized Inspector, and What First Led You Into This Role?
Refer back to questions 1 & 4. I retired completely in 2014.
Highlight of Being an AI
Loved all the different Code applications and diversities of so
many Fabrication Companies involved with.
What Was Your Least Favorite Part of Being an AI?
When I had to reject something that
good and honest people made an honest mistake on.
What Did You Enjoy Most About Being an Authorized Inspector?
Just the great people and fabricators i worked with over all the years. I developed some real good friendships.
Professional Perspective
What Is the Most Common Misconception People Have About Authorized Inspectors?
That we were there to find something wrong and reject it.
What's One Inspection Habit or Best Practice You Believe Every Manufacturer Should Take Seriously?
Fabricate it better than you have to. The Code is the minimum but remember your name and reputation are going on the nameplate and Data Report.
Can You Share a Moment in Your Career Where Your Inspection Made a Meaningful Difference?
There were many but one situation was when there was an issue of a Code item honestly being border line on acceptance or rejection. I convinced the customer that it was definitely not a safety issue and the item was accepted. The customer trusted me and the fabricator never forgot it. My inspection activities in that shop were much easier from that point on.
What Qualities Separate a "Good" Inspection Process From an Excellent One?
I guess just looking at the items like they were yours and inspect it to your personal qualities.
How Do You Stay Current With Changes to ASME Codes and Industry Expectations?
Actually after being retired, I do the on-line National Board proficiency examinations and periodically look over Code materials I have collected over the years.
What Advice Would You Give to Engineers, QA Teams, or Fabricators Working With Authorized Inspectors?
Don’t try to hide anything from the AI. If you have a good honest AI he will work with you to work out any problems you have.
Why Do You Think the Role of the Authorized Inspector Is Critical to the Industry's Future in a Digital World?
In my opinion. There still is nothing like the hands on involvement no what technology has come up with. Guess I’m just old!😂
What's One Lesson the Job Has Taught You That Applies Beyond Inspections?
Do the right thing no matter what! Galatians 6:9.
Fun / Personality
What's the Weirdest Thing You've Ever Found Hidden Inside a Pressure Vessel or Weld Joint During an Inspection?
A dead cat after a pressure test. Remember you asked! 🤷
If Your Career as an AI Had a Movie Title and Tagline, What Would It Be?
The Good, The Bad & The Ugly.
Inspector Throwdown
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