CMC Podcast EP. 32 | ITRS and Testing Bias

By CMC
5/19/26

This episode of the CMC podcast features CMC instructors Craig McClure and Justin Wheaton discussing the philosophy and process behind testing new ideas in technical rope rescue. Much of the conversation focuses on research and presentations given at the International Technical Rescue Symposium (ITRS), and how testing, peer review, and open discussion help move the rescue industry forward.

Craig explains that meaningful testing is not about proving existing beliefs correct, but about pushing systems to failure in order to understand their limits and why they succeed or fail. Craig and Justin reflect on their multi-year testing of small-diameter rope systems and lightweight rescue configurations, including how early rounds of testing were influenced by commercial and instructional bias. Over time, Craig and Justin realized that effective research often changes the original question being asked and requires a willingness to follow results wherever they lead.

The conversation also explores confirmation bias, collaboration, and the importance of having trusted peers challenge assumptions during testing. Craig and Justin discuss how failed tests and unexpected outcomes often provide the most valuable information, especially when researching rope systems, anchors, and rescue equipment.

Craig also shares concerns about the future of ITRS becoming dominated by the same presenters and perspectives year after year. Craig and Justin encourage new voices, new disciplines, and more human-factor focused presentations within the rescue community. Topics such as soft skills, leadership, near-miss reporting, dynamic versus static lanyards, and the psychology behind decision-making in rescue work all become part of the discussion.

Throughout the episode, Craig and Justin emphasize that curiosity, honesty, adaptability, and a willingness to publicly test ideas are essential to advancing technical rescue practices and improving safety across the industry.

Stay tuned for more episodes of the CMC Podcast.