ROCKFORD, Ill. (WTVO) — After 32 years of service in Rockford, Fire Chief Michele Pankow said she is emotional as she sets off on her next adventure.

Chief Pankow has served as Rockford's first female Fire Chief since 2021. If she is appointed by the State Senate, she will also be Illinois' first female State Fire Marshal, beginning July 14th.

As she prepares to step into this new role, Pankow said she is filled with gratitude.

"I am so incredibly honored to have this opportunity, but I mean, it really was surreal as well because it wasn't something that I expected," the Chief said.

Chief Pankow said above all, she is excited to embark on this next chapter in her career.

"I've heard a lot of great things about the staff for the State Fire Marshal, and so I'm very excited about that, a

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