DAS Spotlight on CT State Fire Marshal Lauri Volkert

NAME: Lauri Volkert
Title: CT State Fire Marshal
Office: Office of the State Fire Marshal

1. What do you do?

I’m still learning all of the things I do. Big picture: I oversee the Office of the State Fire Marshal, which is responsible for the adoption and enforcement of the CT Fire Safety and Prevention Codes. The team provides technical support to local fire marshals by providing guidance on tricky questions and reviewing modification applications. We also inspect all State buildings to ensure compliance with the applicable fire codes both during construction and on a regular basis after the building is built. We issue Crane and Demolition Permits, manage the fire-safe cigarette program, manage the CT portion of the National Fire Incident Reporting System, and file the reports of burn injuries. I also work with stakeholder groups and other partners to promote fire and life safety across the State.

2. Why do you work for the State of Connecticut? 

I work for the State because I want to expand my ability to promote fire and life safety through smart code adoption, strategic enforcement, and engaging fire safety education. I am passionate about providing state residents, visitors, and businesses with safe places to live, work, and play.

3. What do you love about your job so far?

I love the team I am stepping into; everyone has been very welcoming and supportive. I also love the opportunities I have had to meet with stakeholders in the fire service community.

4. What are some of your favorite activities outside of work?

I often say that my life outside of work is “the relentless pursuit of less-than-marketable skills.” Some of my favorite hobbies I have pursued over the years are blacksmithing, food preservation, and German longsword fighting. I also enjoy gardening, cooking, a wide range of crafts, celebrating life’s moments with friends and family, and traveling.


5. Where is your favorite place that you have traveled?

Edinburgh, Scotland, is a city that immediately felt like home when I stepped off the plane. I have been a few times and always find some new adventures.


6. What would you tell someone who is interested in working for the state? 

Don’t be afraid to ask questions! No one is an island; it’s important to ask around for guidance and expertise because there are a lot of moving parts in every decision.
 

7. Where is your favorite place in Connecticut? 

I love to explore the shoreline. There are so many great beaches and quaint downtown areas it is hard to pick just one.
 

8. If you could choose one superpower, what would it be, and why?

I would love the ability to pause time. I’m pretty notorious for biting off more than I can chew, so it would be great to be able to pause the world and catch up on a few projects, chores, or just a nap without having to miss anything fun or exciting.