Chuck Lauss

Chuck Lauss began their career in 1987 as a Fire Chief with the City of Pekin. Chuck worked their way up through the ranks and served the community until their retirement in 2009. From 2009 to 2013, Lauss served as the Fire Chief and Branch Manager for Pinkerton Government Services, where they were responsible for emergency services response at Caterpillar facilities. In 2013, they joined the City of Peoria as an Assistant Fire Chief, providing support to the Fire Chief and firefighters. Chuck later became the Fire Chief and OEM Director for the City of Peoria. Additionally, Lauss has worked as an Adjunct Instructor at Illinois Central College since 1993, teaching various fire science courses.

Chuck Lauss earned their high school diploma from Pekin Community High School in 1977. Chuck went on to obtain an Associate's Degree in Fire Science Technology from Illinois Central College between 1990 and 1992. Chuck then pursued a Bachelor's of Arts Degree in Fire Service Administration from Western Illinois University from 2003 to 2007. Continuing their education, Chuck attended the National Fire Academy where they completed the Executive Fire Officer Program from 2006 to 2009. Lastly, they obtained a Master's of Science Degree in Executive Fire Service Leadership from Grand Canyon University, graduating between 2007 and 2010.