In this episode of the Impairment Perspectives Podcast, host Joey interviews Jen Harmon—nationally recognized forensic science and public administration leader with more than 20 years of experience spanning toxicology, crime lab leadership, and policy work. Jen shares her journey from volunteering as a young intern at the Orange County Crime Lab to supervising forensic alcohol operations and ultimately overseeing multiple lab sections as an assistant director. Along the way, she reflects on leadership lessons, building high-trust teams, improving efficiency through Lean Six Sigma, advancing comprehensive drug testing and DUID programs, and translating lab data into actionable insights for stakeholders. The conversation also touches on her 2018 NHTSA Lifesaver Award, testimony before Congress, and her current focus on consulting, teaching, and helping the field connect science with real-world policy and safer roads.
Impairment Perspectives : Jennifer Harmon
- By Dr. Joseph Jones
Dr. Joseph Jones
Dr. Jones has dedicated his career to forensic science since 2006, currently serving as System Director at the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory. In this role, he manages the operations of two forensic laboratories and an evidence hub, serving the northern 29 parishes of Louisiana. See full bio.