Veteran Firefighter Takes Helm in Rockford After Former Chief Exits

New leadership is coming for the Rockford Fire Department as the Fire and Police Commission (FPC) announces an Interim Fire Chief for the Forest City.

Interim Fire Chief Named in Rockford Amid State-Level Promotion

Following Rockford Fire Chief Michele Pankow's appointment as the new Fire Marshal for the State of Illinois, a veteran of RFD is stepping in to lead the department until a permanent replacement is identified.

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According to a press release from the City of Rockford, the FPC has named Brian Carlson as the Interim Fire Chief, effective July 9.

27 Years of Service and Leadership Excellence

Brian Carlson has served the Rockford Fire Department for 27 years and currently holds the role of Division Chief of Administration.

In this position, Carlson oversees internal operations that support field response, community outreach, and long-term departmental goals.

He was previously the District Chief and is recognized for his ability to manage both administrative strategy and on-the-ground operations, according to the press release.

Carlson's interim role was designated under guidelines from the Fire and Police Commission, which restricts applicants for the permanent Fire Chief position from being eligible for interim appointment.

Community-Led Search for Permanent Fire Chief Underway

The citizen-led Fire and Police Commission is now preparing for an open search to fill the permanent Fire Chief position.

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The Commission members are Rudy Valdez, Jonathan Reidy, and Ingrid Hargrove, which oversees hiring and promotions for both police and fire departments.

According to the press release, the Fire and Police Commission is committed to a transparent hiring process with community input.