Dr. Thomas Ropel, Ph.D., retired from a 21-year career with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in August 2023. Throughout his tenure with the FBI, Dr. Ropel specialized in counterterrorism efforts, primarily as a key member of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF). His journey within the Bureau encompassed a wide range of roles and responsibilities, highlighting his exceptional expertise and contributions.

As a lead interrogator on the U.S. Government’s High-Value Detainee Interrogation Group (HIG), Dr. Ropel played an instrumental role in gathering critical intelligence. His work extended beyond the national borders, as he served as an interrogation instructor for a decade, sharing his vast knowledge and techniques with foreign intelligence services and police agencies in over a dozen countries.

Dr. Ropel’s international experience continued as he deployed to more than 25 countries, where he conducted interrogations and spearheaded vital counterterrorism investigations, further enhancing global security efforts. He also significantly contributed to the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) in the Los Angeles area, offering his expertise in criminal behavioral profiling.

Before joining the FBI, he served with honor and distinction as both an enlisted Marine and an Officer in the United States Marine Corps, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to public service.

Today, Dr. Ropel brings his wealth of experience and knowledge to the academic arena as a Professor of Criminal Justice at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, California. In 2022, he successfully earned his Ph.D. in International Psychology from The Chicago School, setting the stage for his work as an International Psychologist. Dr. Ropel’s research in cognitive psychology, particularly within the realm of interview and interrogation, further solidifies his position as a thought leader in this field.

Beyond academia, Dr. Ropel extends his impact as a Global Leadership and Security consultant with Cohort 22, a prominent international consulting company. His expertise and dedication continue to shape the landscape of security and leadership on a global scale.