The income potential for thermographers is significant. Depending upon services offered and rate structure, a single thermographer is capable of generating $250,000 per year in revenue. This potential can be influenced by a number of factors including one’s choice of infrared imaging equipment. Prior to purchasing equipment, one should keep the following in mind:

• Determine your firm’s capabilities with respect to expertise and manpower.

• Conduct a marketing study to determine what services you will offer. In particular, look for services that will repeat annually and/or provide the greatest revenue with the least amount of sales effort.

• Entry level equipment can limit one’s capabilities and revenue potential. Try to anticipate your equipment needs for at least three years and purchase accordingly.

Despite claims to the contrary, thermography is not a ‘point and shoot’ technology. In addition to thorough knowledge of the systems or structures being inspected, thermographers should be trained in infrared theory, heat transfer concepts, equipment operation and selection, current industry standards, and report generation. For those lacking experience, training should be completed prior to purchasing equipment.