Expert: Micah Rousey - 10/12/2006

Question
Mr./Ms. Micah,  I'd like to know what you expect the future holds for Computer Examiners? I very interested in this field, is this certification or profession expected to have a demand?  

Answer
Do I think this field will grow?  Absolutely.  I think the future for Forensic Computer Examiners will definately grow to such a point that most Police Departments will have at least one on permanent staff.

There will continue to be a demand for these kinds of professionals.  I believe anytime someone is being investigated, their personal computers will need to be searched, and currently, this is the only certification that names qualifications to do it.

I think if this is perfectly the field you are considering, there are a few avenues to approach it:

1) Obviously, get your certification.  There are a couple of universities around who offer online courses toward the certification.  After this, you can market yourself to your surrounding police departments.  Develop a fee structure, and see if that gets you anywhere.

2) For further steps to market yourself, go through some local Police training.  Here in California, we have what's called POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training).  This is the qualification program you need to go through to become a Police Officer.  (Our Police Academy.)  I say take this extra step as I believe Police Departments will soon have Forensic Computer Examiners like this on staff  (if some don't already).

3)  Further your education with a degree in Computers.  Any will do, but it will add to your qualifications, which will justify a larger fee.

4)  Ask your local Police Chief what he/she thinks about it.