Nichols FSC was established to provide the highest level of technical expertise and unbiased forensic analysis for our clients.
With a foundation built on over 25 years of experience in forensic science, our consultancy specializes in firearms, toolmarks, and crime scene reconstruction. We are committed to laboratory quality standards and technical documentation that meets the rigorous demands of both legal and scientific communities. Our approach is defined by precision, meticulous oversight, and an authoritative visual record of every analytical step.
Ron Nichols, BS Criminalistics
With more than 25 years of dedicated experience in the field of forensic science, Ron Nichols has established an international reputation as an expert in firearms and toolmark identification. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Criminalistics, he has specialized in meticulous physical evidence analysis and authoritative technical visualization. Throughout his career, Ron has consulted on thousands of cases, providing expert testimony that bridges the gap between complex science and legal proceedings. His dedication to ISO/IEC 17025 standards and technical documentation ensures that Nichols FSC remains at the forefront of the industry.
Katie Marchio, BS Criminology & Criminal Justice
Katie Marchio graduated from the Nichols Forensic Science Consulting Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Academy in 2019 and joined the Academy staff in 2023. Since then, she has been dedicated to supporting the development of future firearm and toolmark examiners through instruction, mentorship, and curriculum development.
Katie has worked for the Omaha Police Department since 2015, holding a variety of administrative roles before joining the Forensic Investigations Unit in 2018. Her experience includes forensic firearm and toolmark examinations, evidence processing, criminal investigations, courtroom testimony, and Daubert hearings involving the admissibility of forensic firearm and toolmark evidence. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree with the goal of becoming a Licensed Mental Health Practitioner.
In addition to her forensic science background, Katie brings valuable experience from the fields of grief counseling, foster youth advocacy, and community mental health. Her education and training in mental health provide valuable insight into the effects of stress, trauma, and burnout, which are increasingly important considerations in forensic science professions. This perspective translates well to the high-stress environments often encountered by forensic practitioners, where attention to detail, sound decision-making, emotional regulation, and professional wellness are essential.
As a member of the Academy staff, Katie is committed to helping students develop both the scientific knowledge and professional skills needed to succeed in the field of forensic firearm and toolmark examination. By combining her experience in forensic science with her education in social work, she strives to create a supportive learning environment that promotes critical thinking, resilience, effective communication, and long-term professional growth. She believes that successful examiners require not only technical expertise, but also the ability to adapt to challenging situations, manage occupational stress, and maintain professionalism throughout their careers.