RTI International

Navigating the criminal legal system can be challenging, especially for individuals balancing court-imposed requirements and behavioral health care. Right here in North Carolina, RTI International is working to bridge this gap. With funding from the National Institute of Justice (NIJ), our experts collaborated with Coastal Horizons and Uptrust to develop ICARE (Interactive Computer-Assisted Recovery Enabler)—an automated text message reminder system designed to help probation-mandated individuals stay on track with their behavioral health appointments. We tested ICARE at Coastal Horizons’ TASC (Treatment Accountability for Safer Communities) offices in Eastern North Carolina, leveraging local expertise to create a system that improves support and accountability. Learn more about our work in NC and beyond: https://ow.ly/hh3O50VqnCX

A huge thank you to our scientists, Michelle McCombs and Chris Peters, for sharing their groundbreaking research on evaluating the effectiveness of particulate barriers in firefighting protective gear. We’re also grateful to Morehead Planetarium and Science Center for hosting the NCSciFest Kick-off at the Executive Mansion last week—it’s incredible to see how this event has grown over the past 15 years! Special thanks to CEO Tim Gabel and board of governors member Christy L Shaffer for their support in making this event a success. Science and research continue to drive innovation and economic impact in North Carolina, and this day was a powerful reflection of our partnerships in action. Meet Michelle and Chris at the UNC Science Expo on April 5, from 11-4 in Chapel Hill along with other RTI Experts! #NCSciFest #EveryDayWhereOne

Violent crimes—particularly fatal and nonfatal shootings—continue to impact communities across the U.S. However, law enforcement agencies clear fewer than half of all reported violent crimes, with clearance rates for some agencies falling below 10% for nonfatal shootings and 25% for fatal shootings. With the support of the National Case Closed Project, and the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA), RTI International is working alongside law enforcement agencies nationwide to increase crime clearance rates. Through training and technical assistance, we help agencies assess investigative practices, identify gaps, and implement effective strategies to improve case outcomes. By strengthening investigative approaches, we not only support law enforcement but also provide much-needed closure to victims and their families. Our commitment to evidence-based solutions is driving real change in public safety. Learn more about our work in improving investigative outcomes: https://ow.ly/uIqU50VnkGm #PublicSafety #LawEnforcement #CrimePrevention #JusticeForVictims

Plastics are often scrutinized for their environmental impact, but what about the chemicals hidden inside them? A recent study found 16,000 known chemicals in plastics, yet only 6% are regulated internationally—and over half haven’t been studied for safety. While materials like PET and PVC are well-regulated, the additives that give plastics flexibility, flame resistance, or color remain largely unchecked. One of the most controversial? Phthalates. Read RTI's latest insights blog by experts Allison Lim, Rebecca Shute and Jamie Pero Parker: https://ow.ly/H2gQ50VkOgQ

RTI International partners with Peru's National Water Authority to enhance water resources management “By leveraging expertise in water resources management and advanced modeling techniques, RTI is helping Peru address critical water challenges.” – Dr. Juliana Corrales, RTI Water Resources Engineer Through cutting-edge hydrological modeling, our work supports Peru’s climate goals and ensures better water resource planning for the future. Learn more: https://ow.ly/MiNL50Vk3K8

Curious about the science behind safety? Meet Michelle McCombs at #NCSciFest on April 5! As a chemist and exposure #scientist at RTI International, Michelle has spent 20+ years researching how our environment impacts health, testing protective gear for first responders and studying real-world exposures. Stop by Morehead Planetarium and Science Center anytime from 11am - 4pm on Saturday, April 5 to hear how science keeps us safe and ask Michelle your burning questions! Learn more about Michelle: https://lnkd.in/e5U-JSau #NCSciFest #RTIDifference

A new #RTIPress publication authored by Katherine Hoogesteyn and Jenn Rineer from RTI examines the challenges, strategies, and prospective research directions regarding police turnover. Access the complete paper here: https://ow.ly/15Qp50VjRzh #CriminalJustice #PublicSafety #LawEnforcement

📢 We’re at #SOT2025 in Orlando, FL! Visit us at booth 800 to connect with our researchers and meet Shaun D. McCullough, PhD, whose paper was awarded Paper of the Year! 🎉 Learn more about our poster and chair sessions here: https://lnkd.in/ebJ4sN_W 👏 Congratulations, Shaun! We look forward to great discussions at #ToxExpo. See you there!

Evaluating potential technology commercialization partners requires assessing their motivations, strategies, and past experiences. This thorough analysis leads to partnerships that foster innovation and growth. Learn more in our latest insights from Garrett C. McKeown Wessler, Ph.D., Steve McManus and Kyra Pfeiffer: https://ow.ly/P8vb50VifM1

Congratulations to the OHWS team and all involved in making this initiative a success! 👏 #MilitaryInnovation #WearableTech #Soldiers