In this column we explore the concept of the instrumentation ecosystem, a dynamic interconnected environment where stakeholders collectively advance education, research, design, technology, usage, and regulation of instrumentation systems. Using non-destructive testing (NDT), with a specific focus on eddy current testing (ECT) as an illustrative case, we unravel the pivotal roles played by the key stakeholders. We argue that comprehending the instrumentation ecosystem's intricacies and dynamics fully illuminates the significance of the technological advancements and fundamental knowledge in the field of instrumentation and measurement.