Rockford Woman Poised to Become Illinois' First Female State Fire Marshal

Rockford woman poised to become Illinois' first female State Fire Marshal

CHICAGO (WMBD) -- Gov. JB Pritzker has appointed Rockford Fire Chief Michele L. Pankow as the next Illinois State Fire Marshall on Wednesday. If her appointment is approved by the Illinois Senate, she will become the first woman to serve as the Illinois State Fire Marshal, according to Pritzker. Pritzker said that with 32 years of experience, her knowledge and skill set have earned her the new role as fire marshal. "Having risen in the ranks sin…

Gov. Pritzker names Rockford Fire Chief Michele Pankow as Illinois State Fire Marshal

If confirmed, Pankow would be the first woman to serve as the state's Fire Marshal when she assumes the role in mid-July.

Rockford Fire Chief Michele Pankow named Illinois State Fire Marshal

CHICAGO, Ill. (WTVO) — Rockford Fire Chief Michele Pankow has been named as Illinois' next State Fire Marshal, Gov. JB Pritzker announced on Wednesday. “With 32 years of exemplary service, Chief Pankow’s unique knowledge and skillset have more than earned her this new role as Illinois State Fire Marshal,” said Pritzker. “Having risen in the ranks since her first day on the job, she understands the needs of Illinois firefighters, and is versed in…

Rockford fire chief to become first woman to serve as state fire marshal in Illinois history

Rockford Fire Chief Michele Pankow, pictured on Wednesday, Sept. 8, 2021, during her swearing in ceremony at Veterans Memorial Hall in Rockford, was selected Wednesday, June 4, 2025, to serve as Illinois state fire marshal. (Photo by Kevin Haas/Rock River Current) By Kevin Haas Rock River Current Get our mobile app ROCKFORD — Michele Pankow, who is the first woman to serve as fire chief in Rockford, is now set to become the first female Illinois…