The Huntley fire chief has announced he will retire after more than 30 years of service with the department and one of the district’s deputy chiefs has been announced as his successor.
Huntley Fire Chief Scott Ravagnie plans to retire later this month and Deputy Chief of Operations Dan Wagner has been appointed to succeed him as the district’s next fire chief.
Ravagnie began his career with the district in 1992 and the fire district said he has played a key role in guiding the organization through decades of growth.
He said his most meaningful moment in his career was the opportunity to swear in his son, Alex, as a firefighter with the Huntley Fire Protection District.
Ravagnie focused on operational improvements, training and partnerships as chief.
He is set to become the first full-time member in district history to retire with thirty years of full-time service.
The fire district launched its Cadet and Internship Program, Mobile Integrated Health initiative and expanded public education efforts under his leadership.
He also oversaw the construction of Fire Station #5 and the current Fire Station #1 headquarters, along with the acquisition of major apparatus, including the district’s first tower ladder truck, three engines, five ambulances, four staff cars, a van and a cargo trailer.
The district swore in 41 full-time firefighters and two administrative assistants, growing overall membership to eighty full-time members, during his tenure as chief.
Ravagnie secured three SAFER grants totaling $3 million, increased daily staffing to 22 firefighter-paramedics and promoted three float lieutenants.
Ravagnie’s other accomplishments include the addition of an apartment-style training tower, expanded joint training with law enforcement, the use of unified command at large-scale incidents and improved labor-management relations.
Ravagnie said it has been an “honor to serve” as chief and to work alongside “such a dedicated and passionate team.”
Wagner, upon his appointment as fire chief, will be a third-generation chief with more than 35 years of experience.
He has served as Deputy Chief of Operations for Huntley since April 2024. His background includes prior service with the Elgin Fire Department in roles such as Battalion Chief and Director of Special Operations.
Wagner holds a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership with a focus in professional and executive coaching and holds multiple certifications through the State Fire Marshal and the Center for Public Safety Excellence.
Ravagnie and Wagner have worked closely over the years and their “long-standing professional relationship” has made a “smooth and thoughtful transition,” according to the fire district.
The Huntley Fire Protection District said all community members are encouraged to attend Ravagnie’s walk-out ceremony on May 23 at 4 p.m. at Station 1, located at 11118 Main Street in Huntley.