Leadership in forensic DNA is never theoretical. It’s complex. It’s personal. It’s often lonely. And it carries real consequences—on your team, your lab’s reputation, and the justice system itself.
That’s why the Forensic Leadership Alliance (FLA) was created.
Led by four respected voices in forensic science, the FLA is a collaborative space for DNA lab directors, supervisors, and rising leaders who want to lead with purpose, integrity, and clarity—even when the job gets hard.
“Leadership isn’t about authority. It’s about showing up with intention, investing in people, and helping them rise.”
— Julie Sikorsky, Forensic Biology Manager, Palm Beach Sheriff’s Office
Why Now?
Today’s forensic DNA leaders face more than just casework demands. Backlogs, staffing shortages, shifting generational expectations, and the pressure to modernize without compromising compliance—all while trying to support the analysts who keep the science moving forward.
The truth? Many of these challenges are shared across labs. But the conversations—and solutions—have often been siloed.
“Our job is maximizing the value of evidence. That’s what we do.”
— Ray Wickenheiser, Former Director, NYSP Crime Lab System
The FLA exists to change that—offering peer mentorship, strategic resources, and practical insights from people who’ve been there.
Meet the Mentors
The Alliance is made up of four forensic leaders, each bringing a unique perspective on leadership:
- Julie Sikorsky – Manager and mentor known for building emotionally intelligent, change-ready teams
- Ray Wickenheiser – Systems thinker and champion of inclusion, engagement, and strategic innovation
- John Collins – Former lab director turned leadership coach challenging toxic hierarchies and coaching teams to thrive
- Pamela Marshall – Academic leader blending scientific excellence, student mentorship, and a mission-first approach to leadership
Together, they represent decades of experience across public labs, academia, casework, and organizational change. What unites them is a shared belief that leadership in forensics is not a title—it’s a mindset.
“I believe that the #1 priority of any leader or administrator is to create the conditions where people are most likely to function with the highest levels of energy and enthusiasm. The #1 mistake leaders make, therefore, is engaging in hierarchical maneuvering and signaling to the point that it makes subordinate employees feel inferior – which is the fastest way to crush their hopes and sense of stability. “
— John Collins, Author of The New Superior
What You'll Gain
This isn’t just another email list or leadership theory circle. It’s about giving you real tools for real-world pressure. When you join the FLA Network, you’ll get:
✅ Strategies to retain top talent and reduce burnout
✅ Tools to advocate for funding, modernization, and new tech
✅ Frameworks to lead culture change without losing sight of compliance
✅ Early access to podcast episodes, articles, and ISHI workshop updates
✅ Insight from peers who are tackling the same leadership struggles you are
“If you serve your staff and those who are under your leadership well, they will in turn take care of the victims and the suspects and the customers that come into our everyday lives.”
— Pamela Marshall, Director, Wecht Institute at Duquesne University
Who Should Join?
The Forensic Leadership Alliance isn’t an exclusive club. It’s a resource built for anyone who cares about leading their lab—and their people—well.
Join us if you’re:
- A Lab Director or Technical Leader navigating strategic decisions
- A Supervisor managing people, priorities, and policies
- An Aspiring Leader preparing for what’s next
- A Mentor or Trainer invested in developing others
- A Public Sector Scientist who wants to modernize without compromising quality
If you’ve ever felt the weight of responsibility—for your people, your processes, your results—you belong here.
What's Next?
There are multiple ways to get involved right now:
📥 Download Your First Leadership Resources Today
Start with exclusive articles and tools curated by FLA mentors—designed to help you build stronger teams, justify change, and support your own growth as a leader.
🎧 Podcast Coming Soon:
This podcast will feature candid conversations with all four FLA mentors, diving into the real-life leadership moments most people don’t talk about—mistakes, mindset shifts, morale issues, and how to rise when things get messy.
🛠️ Join Us In-Person at ISHI 36
Workshop: The World is Not Ending: Maintaining Your Poise and Professionalism During Difficult Times
📍 Palm Beach Convention Center
📅 November 6, 2025 // ⏰ 1:30–4:30 PM
💵 Registration: $275 (includes lunch + printed materials)
In times of uncertainty, it’s easy to let fear and emotion cloud our thinking—but the most effective professionals stay grounded in facts, focused on purpose, and connected to their inner strengths.
This dynamic, peer-led workshop brings together all four FLA mentors:
- John Collins on reframing crisis through resilience-based leadership
- Pam Marshall on the science of imposter syndrome and how to overcome it
- Julie Sikorsky on leading with composure and visibility under pressure
- Ray Wickenheiser on practical, field-tested tools to manage conflict and stress
Whether you’re facing staffing issues, career doubt, or just want to feel more confident in your leadership, this workshop will leave you with renewed clarity and commitment.
Join the FLA Network
Leadership in forensic biology isn’t getting easier. But you don’t have to navigate it alone.
Join the FLA Network to get early access to tools, insights, and peer conversations that help you lead with clarity, confidence, and credibility.
