New State Fire Marshal Named

Joel Thacker

Plainfield Fire Chief Joel Thacker has been chosen by Governor Eric Holcomb to serve as the state’s next fire marshal. Thacker succeeds Stephen Cox, who had served in the role since October but was named executive director of the Indiana Department of Homeland Security in January.

Thacker began his career as an EMT and volunteer firefighter in 1992, before becoming a career firefighter for Brownsburg and White River Township. He was named Plainfield fire chief in 2017.

“Chief Thacker has risen through the ranks to bring 28 years of fire and emergency response experience to the position of Indiana fire marshal,” Gov. Holcomb said. “In his new role, he will continue to grow relationships with our state’s first responders and increase public safety for all Hoosiers.”

Thacker is set to take over his new duties April 6.