Michael "Kess" Kessler

Michael P. “Kess” Kessler is an Assistant Professor of Practice in Forensic Sciences at Texas Tech University and the Principal Consultant of Kessler Forensic Solutions, where he provides case review, expert analysis, and specialized training for law enforcement agencies, legal professionals, and investigative teams. His professional background spans crime scene investigation, death investigation, operational forensics, and public safety technology across municipal, state, and federal environments.

Kess has served in multiple forensic, intelligence, and technical exploitation roles supporting law enforcement and U.S. Department of Defense operations, including deployments in support of counter-IED and counterterrorism missions. He later managed national Rapid DNA implementation programs and has trained domestic and international teams in forensic technologies, operational workflow, and evidence-handling doctrine.

In addition to his technical and operational work, Kess is deeply engaged in the mental health needs of the forensic community. Drawing on his own lived experience with trauma exposure and recovery, he develops trauma-informed curricula, teaches resilience-focused professional practices, and speaks publicly on trauma literacy, psychological safety, and the human factors embedded in forensic work.