F

Objective: To have designated participants (~3-7 years forensic experience) who will actively pursue opportunities to serve as ‘mentors/recruiters’ for the MAAS organization.

Goal: To initiate a program at the regional association level that actively seeks to establish and foster professional relationships with those individuals possessing less than approximately three (3) years of work experience in the field of forensic science.

Through mentorship, it is expected that these individuals will develop necessary leadership skills and experience to serve the MAAFS organization and their own parent organizations in more direct capacities. As responsibilities and experiences broaden, the participants would eventually delegate their responsibilities for mentoring and recruitment to newly qualified individuals thereby establishing a continuum of experience, communication, and mentoring.

Liaisons will be responsible for pursuing opportunities to share their learning and development experiences gained from their interaction with more experienced professionals with those individuals interested in pursing careers in forensic science. Topics for discussion may include:

· synopses of other meetings/workshops

· expert testimony experiences

· journal clubs

· evidence handling issues

· ‘real-world’ job descriptions

· ethical issues

· ABC study groups

· time management skills

· validation work

· legislative issues

· computer/instrument software

· casework

Recruitment of those possessing less than 3 years work experience in the field to attend such ‘Exchanges’ would be very strongly encouraged and expected. If you are interested in assisting with the development of this idea, please contact:

Stephanie Rauscher-Finn, Director

Anne Arundel County Police Department Crime Laboratory

srfinn@hotsheet.com

P 410-222-8531