Carolyn Fernan
Corpus Christi,TX
Summary
Accomplished forensic professional specializing in firearm and toolmark examination and analysis. Recognized for strong analytical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and effective report writing. Committed to enhancing investigative outcomes through thorough forensic evaluations and expert courtroom presentations.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
3
3
Certification
1
1
License
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work History
Firearm & Toolmark Examiner
Corpus Christi Police Department
Corpus Christi, Texas
04.2005 - 05.2026
- Examined submitted firearms for functionality, modifications, and safety compliance.
- Tested firearms for NIBIN entry and collected known samples.
- Conducted comparative analysis of bullets, casings, and toolmarks.
- Measured and recorded examination findings of submitted evidence.
- Restored serial numbers on firearms to recover original identifiers.
- Processed firearms evidence for latent print development and touch DNA analysis.
- Performed trajectory analysis, crime scene reconstruction, and distance determination.
- Assisted at crime scenes during officer-involved shootings.
- Prepared detailed reports summarizing examination findings
- Provided expert testimony in court
Crime Scene Investigator
Corpus Christi Police Department
Corpus Christi, Texas
04.2002 - 03.2005
- Collected and preserved evidence from crime scenes for forensic analysis.
- Documented crime scene details using photography and sketches.
- Analyzed physical evidence to assist in criminal investigations.
- Photographed crime scenes and collected relevant evidence for laboratory examination.
- Processed evidence for the development of latent prints using a variety of processing methods
- Maintained chain of custody and packaged evidence for submission into Property.
- Testified in court and presented case evidence to assist with trials and hearings.
- Prepared detailed reports of findings from crime scene investigations.
- Managed caseloads efficiently, prioritizing tasks and meeting strict deadlines in high-pressure environments.
US Army Military Police Investigator
US Army
San Diego, California
02.2000 - 04.2002
- Trained junior personnel on investigative techniques and procedures to enhance operational effectiveness.
- Monitored compliance with laws, regulations, policies, and procedures to uphold standards and ensure accountability.
- Conducted security patrols and ID card checks at military base checkpoints to maintain safety and security.
Education
Ph.D. - Forensic Science
University of Oklahoma
Stillwater 01.2026 - Current
Master of Science - Forensic Science
George Washington University
Washington, DC 08.1995 - 05.1997
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, IL 08.1983 - 05.1987
Skills
- Firearm expertise
- Microscope proficiency
- Report writing
- Testimony preparation
- Accuracy and precision
- Analytical skills
- Problem solving
- Decision making
- Organizational skills
- Multitasking ability
- Attention to detail
Certification
- Firearm Examination and Identification Certification
- Toolmark Examination and Identification Certification
- Distance Determination Examination and Identification Certification
- Forensic Science Commission License in Firearm Analysis
Timeline
Ph.D. - Forensic Science
University of Oklahoma
01.2026 - Current
Firearm & Toolmark Examiner
Corpus Christi Police Department
04.2005 - 05.2026
Crime Scene Investigator
Corpus Christi Police Department
04.2002 - 03.2005
US Army Military Police Investigator
US Army
02.2000 - 04.2002
Master of Science - Forensic Science
George Washington University
08.1995 - 05.1997
Bachelor of Science - Biology
University of Illinois At Urbana-Champaign
08.1983 - 05.1987