A Career Built on Passion and Progress

Courtney’s journey into forensic DNA wasn’t just a career move—it was a calling. Drawn to genetics and DNA from an early stage, she pursued a master’s degree in forensic science with a focus on criminalistics, blending her love for science with a desire to make a tangible impact. Over the last 20 years at AZDPS, she’s done exactly that.

As a Supervising Forensic Scientist, Courtney has trained more than 20 serology and DNA analysts, ensuring the next generation of forensic professionals is equipped with the skills and confidence needed to excel. She played a pivotal role in validating and implementing new technologies in the lab, improving efficiency and the reliability of forensic DNA testing. And perhaps most impressively, under her leadership as Casework DNA Technical Leader (2016-2024), the AZDPS lab reached an incredible milestone—reducing their backlog to zero cases older than 90 days. In an industry where backlogs can significantly delay justice, this accomplishment speaks volumes about her commitment to process improvement and operational excellence.

A Leader Who Builds Others Up

When asked about what she’s most proud of in her career, Courtney doesn’t focus on a single case or breakthrough. Instead, she highlights the impact she’s had on the people around her. “I feel like I’ve worked a lot of cases, and I’m proud of that, but I’m also proud of the way I have led people and encouraged them in their careers,” she shares. “I like being in a supportive role, helping others troubleshoot problems, refining protocols, and making their lives easier.”

This mindset of lifting others up is exactly what makes her a perfect fit for the ISHI Advisory Committee. ISHI has always been a space for forensic professionals to learn from one another, to push boundaries, and to grow as a community. Courtney’s leadership, mentorship experience, and ability to navigate the ever-changing landscape of forensic DNA will be an invaluable asset as ISHI continues to shape the future of the field.

Embracing Change and Looking Ahead

Courtney often tells her team, “If you don’t like change, you shouldn’t be in forensic DNA.” It’s a philosophy that rings true in a discipline that is constantly evolving—whether through new sequencing technologies, rapid DNA applications, or advancements in investigative genetic genealogy. She’s seen firsthand how quickly forensic DNA has grown over the past two decades, and she’s eager to help guide discussions on where it’s headed next.

Her first experience with ISHI, attending the Las Vegas conference, left a lasting impression. The sheer scale of the event, the networking opportunities, and the chance to engage with experts from across the world solidified her appreciation for the forensic DNA community. Now, as a member of the Advisory Committee, she’s in a position to help shape the event that once inspired her—to ensure it remains a place where professionals come together to exchange ideas, challenge the status quo, and drive forensic science forward.

A New Chapter with ISHI

Outside of the lab, Courtney is just as dynamic. She’s a dedicated soccer mom, an avid traveler, and a fan of video games and movies—proving that even forensic scientists need time to unwind. But whether she’s on the field cheering for her daughter or exploring a new country, her passion for forensic DNA never wavers.