Design Like A J.E.D.I: How Wisconsin's State Crime Lab is Redefining Forensic Science
In 1996, I embarked on my first architectural internship in Greenville, SC, while pursuing my undergraduate degree in architecture at Clemson University. At that time, computers were just becoming more affordable, but many architectural firms still relied heavily on hand-drawn documentation. My first task as an intern was to create “blueprints”—a labor-intensive process by today’s standards. I would take the original design, place it onto photosensitive paper, and feed it into the copier using a solution of ammonium ferric citrate and potassium ferricyanide. The smell of ammonium would cling to my clothes and in my nose, a reminder of the hours spent handling materials in the firm’s print room.
I realized while working at the firm, all the women were relegated to lower-level tasks, while upper management responsibilities were reserved for men. I was the only Asian woman in a firm of 80 people, with just three women in total under a stressful environment and high expectations. The career dynamic felt restrictive and navigating this predominantly male environment made me feel as though I had to work much harder to carve out my place. Reflecting on my career since graduating, especially the late ‘90s and early 2000s, it's striking how much the workforce dynamics and the people filling these roles have changed.
In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic played a pivotal role in reshaping how we work, introducing smarter, more flexible methods, including remote work. This shift has not only boosted production and efficiency but has also opened doors for working mothers to work from home and to enter fields that were once male-dominated—fields requiring stringent security measures and traditionally seen as reserved for men.
Featured in this month’s J.E.D.I. column is the Wisconsin State’s Forensic Science and Protective Medicine Facility. Ken Mohr, Crime Lab Design’s (CLD) forensic subject matter expert, and I had the privilege of interviewing Nicole Roehm, MS, administrator for Wisconsin’s Division of Forensic Sciences (DFS) that oversees the Wisconsin State Crime Laboratories (WSCL), to discuss the evolution of forensic science and her vision for the future of the industry.
In the WSCL system, a remarkable transformation is taking place. Not only is gender composition of the workforce shifting, but emerging technologies are also reshaping the future of forensic analysis. The combination of gender equity and technological innovation has created an environment where diversity is celebrated, and the pursuit of excellence is the driving force.
Gender diversity in the workforce
A significant shift has occurred in the demographic makeup of forensic laboratories, particularly within the Wisconsin state crime lab system, which now boasts a workforce that is over 75 percent female. This marks a substantial change from historical norms where forensic science, especially disciplines like firearms examination, were largely dominated by men. In fact, WSCL firearms examination division has made strides toward gender parity, with nearly equal representation of men and women—a major achievement for a field traditionally seen as male-dominated.
This change in gender representation has not stopped at the laboratory bench but has extended to leadership roles as well. Increasingly, women are stepping into leadership positions within the crime lab system. This progression reflects a broader societal trend where women’s leadership capabilities are recognized and celebrated, ensuring that lab systems better mirror the diverse makeup of the staff they lead. The result is an inclusive work culture where diverse perspectives are integral to decision-making, innovation, and overall lab operations.
Case processing and DNA analysis
The WSCL system handles more than 9,000 cases and 55,000 items of evidence annually, with DNA requests in nearly 50 percent of the total intake. The lab has experienced significant advancements in forensic biology and DNA analysis, including breakthroughs like investigative genetic genealogy, opening up exciting new possibilities for solving cases. The traditional focus on Short Tandem Repeat (STR) testing is now complemented by cutting-edge Single Nucleotide Polymorphism (SNP) technology currently conducted by private laboratories. This next-generation DNA analysis is opening doors for more robust data collection, further enhancing the lab’s ability to aid in criminal investigations.
The integration of these technologies has not been without challenges, especially as the lab adapts to a constantly changing landscape of forensic techniques, requiring more staff for hands-on procedures and new staff skills for the use of robotics in the lab. However, the lab remains committed to staying ahead of the curve and maximizing the potential of DNA analysis in solving cases.
Advancements in toxicology and chemistry
The disciplines of forensic toxicology and chemistry have also experienced significant advancements. The introduction of more sophisticated instruments, such as LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry) and Q-TOF (quadrupole time-of-flight) systems has propelled forensic analysis to new heights. These advanced systems provide much greater sensitivity, allowing for more precise detection of trace substances and poisons; however, the increased power of these instruments also presents challenges. These instruments now need more stringent contamination controls, robust infrastructure systems, and a better understanding of how to manage large volumes of samples and data.
Despite these hurdles, the positive impact of these technologies is undeniable. As the crime lab continues to embrace these innovations, it is becoming increasingly clear that these instruments will enhance the lab’s ability to provide more accurate results, contributing to more effective criminal investigations through improved median turnaround-times (TAT).
Integration of new technologies
The integration of advanced technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics is another key area of focus for the WSCL system. These technologies hold the potential to revolutionize forensic science by automating routine tasks, such as technical reviews of cases and improving the accuracy and speed of analyses. These advanced technologies also increase the opportunities to work remotely; however, lab leaders are keenly aware of the need to balance innovation with maintaining the human element in forensic work. This is essential for ensuring that sensitive investigation analysis is handled with care and discretion.
Confidentiality, integrity of evidentiary privilege, and accreditation requirements are also significant considerations when adopting AI and robotics. The crime lab system is approaching the integration of these technologies with caution, ensuring that every step taken aligns with the agency’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of privacy, security, and reliability.
Educational outreach and internship programs
In addition to embracing new technologies and fostering a healthy work environment, the WSCL is committed to inspiring the next generation of forensic scientists. Through an unpaid internship program aimed at junior and senior university students, the lab provides invaluable opportunities for hands-on experience in forensic science, increasing students’ post-graduate marketability. Staff members are also actively engaged with universities, offering lectures and mentoring to students interested in pursuing careers in forensic science.
These outreach efforts are designed not only to equip the next wave of professionals with the necessary skills and knowledge but also to encourage diversity in the field by attracting students from different backgrounds. By fostering educational connections, the crime lab is ensuring that future forensic professionals are well-prepared to face the evolving challenges of the field. https://www.doj.state.wi.us/dfs/crime-lab-internships
The Wisconsin K-12 school system has made significant strides in STEM education, with an increasing number of high schools now offering forensic science courses. This allows students to explore this exciting field at an earlier stage in their academic journey. In response, WSCL has launched a Career Development Team that collaborates with high schools. Although there are no internships currently available for high school students, this initiative marks an important step forward in WSCL’s commitment to supporting education.
Education extends beyond students, and WSCL has long understood the importance of educating the end users of forensic science analysis. The new facility is designed with spaces to accommodate medium to large groups, ensuring it can support the impartial training that WSCL has been providing for years. The annual WSCL symposium brings together a diverse cross-section of the criminal justice system, including law enforcement, judges, state public defenders, prosecutors, academics, forensic scientists, and legislators. This unique event underscores WSCL’s commitment to impartiality and the advancement of forensic education.
Hybrid work model and productivity metrics
In response to the changing expectations of today’s workforce, the WSCL has implemented a hybrid work model, allowing staff to work remotely when feasible. This flexibility is being met with enthusiasm from employees, contributing to a better work-life balance and increasing overall job satisfaction. At the same time, the lab has put productivity metrics in place to ensure the quality and quantity of work are maintained, regardless of where staff members are working in the best intentions to maintain the lab’s Forensic Laboratory Accreditation ISO/IEC 17025.
This hybrid model is necessary as the crime lab system adapts to a rapidly changing workforce. The ability to work remotely without compromising the effectiveness of the staff ensures that the lab remains competitive in attracting top talent while maintaining integrity.
As workflows within discipline are updated, so to are the productivity metrics, highlighting WSCL leaderships flexibility and adaptability to change and progress.
Staff wellness and vicarious trauma
One of the most exciting topics in forensic labs is the growing recognition of the importance of staff well-being in high-stress environments. While forensic labs portrayed in TV shows like CSI may feature provocative neon lights and glamorous spaces designed to accommodate staffing needs, the reality is quite different. Forensic labs may not mirror the high-gloss aesthetic seen on TV, but the issue of staff well-being in high-stress environments has been actively discussed and addressed in many real-world facilities.
Modern crime lab facilities are being designed with flexibility in mind, accommodating future technological advancements and the evolving needs of staff. This flexibility extends beyond the physical layout to include wellness-focused spaces that promote mental health and relaxation. Staff areas are now designed to support meditation, prayer, and decompression, ensuring employees have the resources they need to cope with the emotional demands of their work. Natural light and aesthetically pleasing environments are also priorities, creating spaces that foster positivity and encourage productivity. By investing in employee well-being, crime labs not only retain talented staff and attract forward-thinking candidates but also improve morale and reduce burnout in an inherently stressful field.
Addressing the emotional toll that forensic work can take and effect staff is a key priority for the Wisconsin State Crime Lab (WSCL). Vicarious trauma, a form of emotional distress experienced by professionals exposed to the trauma of others, is a significant concern in forensic science. By focusing on wellness, the lab aims to create an environment where employees feel supported and equipped to handle the emotional challenges of the field.
This emphasis on wellness is also reflected in the lab leadership's commitment to improving compensation and benefits through the Wisconsin Retirement System (WRS). Recognizing the importance of work-life balance and flexibility, the lab continues to make efforts to attract and retain talented professionals by adapting to the changing expectations of today’s workforce.
The WSCL system stands as an example of how gender diversity, technological advancements, and a focus on staff well-being can transform the field of forensic science. By embracing innovation while prioritizing the needs of its workforce, the system is not only meeting the demands of the present but also preparing for the future of forensic analysis and its staff. As the field continues to evolve, the Wisconsin State Crime Lab system’s commitment to diversity, innovation, and wellness will undoubtedly serve as a model for other forensic labs across the nation.
Next month, our team at Crime Lab Design (CLD) will sit down with the lab director of Acadiana Crime Lab in Louisiana for an engaging interview. We’ll explore Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) in forensic science—don’t miss this insightful discussion!
