Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Academy
Culture of Excellence and Care
The Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Academy was established by Nichols Forensic Science Consulting in 2018 to provide forensic science laboratories with a comprehensive low-cost alternative for providing firearm examiner trainees with training that meets and exceeds ASB Standard 124, First Edition, 2024, Minimum Requirements and Recommendations for a Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Program.
The Academy leverages web-based technology to deliver, monitor, and critically review training of students, preparing them to perform monitored and supervised casework for the host laboratory without ever having to leave their laboratory. The training is customizable and takes advantage of many different learning modalities as well as the most complete combination of white and black box analysis of the various exercise. This helps to ensure the fullest assessment of the student’s thought process and results throughout the training.
Download the Academy's Mission, Scope, and Training Synopsis for more details on how we meet, at a minimum, the ASB Standard.
Excellence in Training
We prioritize the highest standards in examiner training, continually enhancing skills and knowledge to ensure top-notch outcomes.
Genuine Human Connections
Despite being an online academy, we focus on building real, meaningful relationships with trainees to support their personal and professional growth.
Empathy and Respect
Our culture is rooted in understanding the individual needs of each trainee, fostering an environment of empathy and mutual respect.
Stronger Relationships & Satisfaction
By investing in relational care, we create trust and improve customer satisfaction, setting us apart with a reputation for genuine support during and after training.
In addition to providing resources for professional development, Nichols Forensic Science Consulting also provides resources for personal development. Self-care has rightly become a central focus for forensic professionals, and its importance is long overdue. While we often need to compartmentalize in the moment, it is essential that we intentionally pursue healing and wholeness in every area of our lives.
Harvard University has developed a program dedicated to human flourishing. In partnership with that effort, the Relational Values Alliance has curated a collection of resources designed to bring relational values into everyday life—supporting growth in character, emotional health, meaningful relationships, life satisfaction, vocational purpose, and financial well‑being.
Nichols Forensic Science Consulting has joined with the Relational Values Alliance to offer our trainees these additional resources to help them THRIVE mentally, emotionally, physically, and financially. All resources are provided free of charge, reflecting our commitment to supporting not only the professional development of our trainees but their personal growth as well.
Benefits of Remote Training
IMMEDIATE ENROLLMENT
COST
MINIMIZATION
No waitlists or class size caps allows trainees to start their learning journey quickly.
No expenses related to travel and housing by delivering the entire training program online, saving agencies and trainees significant costs.
ASYNCHRONUS LEARNING
FLEXIBILITY
Provide recorded sessions that trainees can review anytime, enhancing understanding and accommodating varied schedules beyond traditional in-person lectures.
Allow hosting laboratories to integrate training seamlessly into their schedules with adaptable options that meet their unique operational needs.
Individualized Mentoring Approach
Dual Mentor Support
Each trainee is provided with at least two mentors to provide diverse perspectives and comprehensive guidance throughout assignments.
One-on-One Assignment Reviews
Every assignment undergoes a thorough individual review, including detialed feedback on comparison tasks to ensure deep understanding.
Microsoft Teams Consultations
Trainees can schedule personalized meetings via Microsoft Teams to discuss complex concepts and clarify concepts in real time.
Adaptive Learning Styles
We tailor teaching methods to the trainee's preferred learning style, ensuring a comfortable and effective learning experience.
the Academy Team
Ron Nichols
With more than 40 years of dedicated experience in the field of forensic science, Ron Nichols has established an international reputation as an expert in firearm and toolmark identification. In 2018 he founded the Nichols FSC Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Academy, the purpose of which was to provide forensic science laboratories a robust training program for their new firearm and toolmark examiner trainees.
Holding a Bachelor of Science in Criminalistics, he has an established record in publications dealing with the scientific foundations of the discipline and how to articulate those foundations. Throughout his career, Ron has done training workshops for agencies and organizations to promote education for new and experienced examiners in various aspects of the scientific foundations of the discipline. Throughout his career, Ron has consulted on hundreds of cases, providing expert testimony that bridges the gap between complex science and legal proceedings. His dedication to accreditation guidelines, quality assurance and control, and emotional, mental, and relational wellness ensures that Nichols FSC remains at the forefront of the industry.
Katie Marchio
After serving on the Nichols Forensic Science Consulting Academy staff part time since 2023, Katie Marchio is joining Nichols FSC full time as Operations Manager. In this role, she will oversee day-to-day operations while supporting the continued growth of the Academy, its students, and training programs.
Katie graduated from the Nichols FSC Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Academy in 2019 and brings more than a decade of experience with the Omaha Police Department. She holds a bachelor's degree in Criminology/Criminal Justice and is currently pursuing a Master of Social Work degree with the goal of becoming a licensed mental health therapist. Her training in mental health provides an additional perspective on managing stress, burnout, communication, and professional wellness within the demanding field of forensic science.
Jordan Green
Jordan Green is joining Nichols Forensic Science Consulting part time as Quality Assurance Manager. In this role, she will support the continued development and oversight of the Academy's quality assurance practices, helping ensure training and operations remain consistent with established standards and best practices in forensic science.
Jordan has served as a forensic science instructor and quality assurance and accreditation manager since 2021. She previously worked as a firearm examiner for six years, conducting casework and original research. Jordan holds a Bachelor of Science in Zoology from the University of Oklahoma, a Master of Science in Forensic Science from Marshall University, and a Ph.D. in Forensic Science from Oklahoma State University. Her combined experience in firearm examination, education, research, quality assurance, and accreditation brings valuable expertise to the continued growth of Nichols FSC.
Josh Heinz
Josh Heinz recently joined the Nichols Forensic Science Consulting Academy staff, bringing his experience and expertise in firearm and toolmark examination to the training team. Working alongside other Academy instructors, Josh helps guide trainees through the comparison modules, providing instruction, feedback, and practical insight as they develop their examination and comparison skills. His addition to the team further strengthens the Academy's ability to provide individualized guidance and mentorship to its growing number of trainees.
Josh began his forensics career in 2017 after graduating University with a B.S. in Chemistry and a B.S. in Criminal Justice. He initially worked in the Chemistry section of the Utah State Crime Lab before transferring and beginning his training in firearm and toolmark examination in 2018. Josh graduated from the ATF National Firearm Examiner Academy in 2019. Josh is a member of the Association of Firearm and Toolmark Examiners. He is also currently the Technical Leader for the Firearm and Toolmark section at his laboratory. Josh enjoys teaching and ensuring that future firearm and toolmark examiners will be well equipped to be effective examiners and courtroom expert witnesses. Josh believes strongly in the material and learning atmosphere that this training program provides.
Andy Smith
Andy Smith has been a valued member of the Nichols Forensic Science Consulting Academy staff since 2023, where he guides trainees through the comparison modules of the Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Academy. Drawing on his extensive experience and expertise in the field, Andy provides trainees with practical instruction, thoughtful feedback, and mentorship as they develop and refine their comparison skills. His knowledge and commitment to training continue to be an invaluable resource to both the Academy and its students.
Andy earned his B.A. degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and a M.S. in Forensic Science from the University of New Haven. Andy is an Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE) certified Firearm and Tool Mark Examiner (certified in Firearms / Tool Marks / Distance Determination) and is the Supervisor of the Firearm and Tool Mark Unit at the San Francisco Police Department Crime Laboratory. He is also a past President of AFTE, having served from 2018-2019. Andy was the Chair of the Scientific Working Group for Firearms and Toolmark Examination (SWGGUN) as it transitioned into the OSAC framework, and after that transition served as the first Chair of the newly formed Firearm and Toolmark Subcommittee under the Physics and Pattern Scientific Area Committee. He was appointed to the Forensic Science Standards Board (FSSB) in 2019 and currently serves as the AFTE representative as well as the current Chair of the FSSB. Andy is a Technical Assessor for ANAB, serves as a member of the 3D Toolmark Technologies Technical Working Group, and is an instructor for the National Firearms Examiner Academy teaching the module on evidence admissibility. Andy has also been trained and performs casework in primer residue testing and examination utilizing scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive x-ray analysis.
Endorsements from the Firearm and Toolmark Examiner Training Academy
From Managers and Supervisors
"The structural approach to practical comparison assignments, which required her to justify every conclusion, was instrumental in developing her analytical skills. It forced her to articulate the 'why' behind her decisions, helping her recognize the weight of specific observations. This methodical process was a key factor in her building a robust set of personal identification criteria."
— Claudia, United States
"I found the blend of lectures, written work, and hands-on exercises to be remarkably well-balanced. The inclusion of photography and casting was a significant plus. The provided standards ensure a level playing field for all students, and the transparency of the learning platform allowed me to monitor progress effectively as a supervisor."
— Sarai, United States
"Our lab faced significant resource constraints that made internal training nearly impossible, making this program an essential partner. The curriculum depth and mentorship provided were top-tier. Our trainee excelled under this guidance, and I am fully confident that our firearm section is prepared for future success thanks to this professional foundation."
— Mark, United States
"I’m hearing we are in the works of establishing our 5th active trainee in your program soon. Your expertise and dedication are an invaluable asset to our community, making a real difference for everyone involved. Thank you for all that you do—your efforts are noticed and genuinely valued."
— Richard, United States
From Trainees
"The sheer volume of microscope time offered here stands unrivaled among forensic training programs. I especially valued the emphasis on detailed note-taking during practicals, which translated perfectly into real-world casework. The self-paced nature of the course removed unnecessary pressure, allowing me to master difficult concepts without rushing. Even though the instruction is remote, the support felt immediate; the mentors are incredibly responsive and always available for a deep-dive consultation whenever needed."
— Nina, United States
"The program’s structured methodology—combining reading, writing, and hands-on drills—is excellent. The constant feedback loop ensured that I didn't just move through the material, but actually corrected my mistakes and reinforced best practices. It was a rigorous experience that profoundly expanded my professional capabilities."
— Celeste, United States
"Nichols Forensic Science Consulting offers a premier digital environment for mastering toolmark comparisons. The curriculum is expertly designed to build knowledge progressively, ensuring that complex theories become second nature. Beyond the technical skills, the program sharpened my critical thinking in ways that benefit my life both inside and outside the laboratory room."
— Sara, United States
"Ron’s ability to decode my thought process while offering constructive guidance has been a game-changer. He fosters a supportive learning atmosphere that boosted my confidence significantly. Knowing I have a mentor I can depend on has made all the difference in my career path."
— Jennifer, United States
"I’m hearing we are in the works of establishing our 5th active trainee in your program soon. Your expertise and dedication are an invaluable asset to our community, making a real difference for everyone involved. Thank you for all that you do—your efforts are noticed and genuinely valued. - Richard, United States"
— Sarah, United States
"The variety of instructional formats used in the training was vital for my understanding of the subject matter. I was also deeply touched by the kindness and empathy shown by Ron Nichols. The environment he creates makes it easy to ask questions and engage in meaningful scientific discourse."
— Hannah, United States
Repeat Customers
• Hamilton County Coroner’s Office and Crime Laboratory, Ohio • Honolulu Police Department, Hawai’i • Indianapolis Marion County Forensic Services Agency • Knoxville Police Department, Kentucky • Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension • North Carolina Department of Justice • Omaha Police Department, Nebraska • Onondaga County Center for Forensic Services, New York • Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) • San Mateo County Sheriff, California • State of Connecticut Division of Scientific Services • Sedgwick County Regional Forensic Science Center, Kansas • Utah Bureau of Forensic Services
Trainee Success Stories
Proven Results and Success Stories
Graduates have successfully transitioned into full-time examiner roles and actively participate as members of the Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE).
Many trainees have shared testimonials highlighting their growth and confidence gained through our comprehensive training and mentoring approach.
Agency partners consistently report high satisfaction rates, with many returning to enroll additional trainees due to the quality and impact of our training.
High Satisfaction and Repeat Clients
Career Advancement
