Volkert to become first female state fire marshal in Connecticut [Video]

HARTFORD, Conn. — A historic appointment was made on Friday, as Lauri Volkert became the first woman ever named as a Connecticut state fire marshal.

The appointment was made by Department of Administrative Services Commissioner Michelle Gilman. Volkert will begin in the position on Dec. 2 and succeed William Abbott, who is retiring after 19 years of state service, including 11 years as the state fire marshal.

After serving as a fire inspector for the town of Windsor, Volkert has been employed as the municipality’s fire marshal since 2023.

Gilman says she is confident that Volkert has the skills and experience to be a highly successful state fire marshal.

“Lauri Volkert brings significant institutional knowledge, stellar communication skills and deep relationships across the fire service community,” Gilman said in a release. …