Getting into the forensic world can be challenging. Even after getting a degree, it can still be a struggle to obtain a job in your desired field. Having such a niche job, people often ask me how I got to where I am today.
Let’s go back to the start. While in college, I began taking an interest in the legal system and psychology, reading case studies in my free time. That’s when I came across the case of John Orr, a fire captain and arson investigator who was convicted of serial arson and four counts of murder. If you are in the fire industry, you may be familiar with this case. I began exploring the idea of a career in forensic and arson investigation. The combination of fire dynamics, human behaviour and problem-solving sparked my interest.
I studied forensic and analytical science at University, as I felt this would give a good overview of the forensic industry and open more doors in the future. During this time, I was exposed to a wide variety of disciplines, including crime scene investigation, genetics, biology, chemistry and laboratory work.
After university, I worked for two years in a laboratory where I became familiar with fixing analytical equipment and testing. Yet, I was still seeking a career where I could feel challenged. I then became intrigued by the unpredictability, challenges and learning involved with fire investigation, which I had only learned about briefly in my courses.
While working in the laboratory, I started volunteering on the weekend at a place that ran crime scene experience days for the public. I eventually began running the events, working alongside people from various backgrounds, including police, forensic scientists and crime scene investigators.
As I began networking there, I met a retired fire investigator who shared stories about his time in the field. Over time, I made more contacts within the industry, ultimately reaching out to police departments and fire brigades to inquire about graduate, apprenticeship and work experience opportunities.
Looking to advance my education, I began taking the course ‘Practical fire investigation’, provided by the Fire Service College, even though I was not employed in the field. Taking this course firmly established that fire investigation was the career for me. I absorbed all the course information, utilising this knowledge when tasked with excavating my first fire scene. After the course, I stayed in touch with the course leaders, making a habit to message for advice and information in my job pursuit.
After joining professional organisations and spending my evenings studying and job hunting, I finally found a graduate opportunity in Ireland. I applied immediately and got the job! Since joining Jensen Hughes in November 2021, I have attended over 50 cases, gained a wide range of experience and progressed in my career.
