Jeannette Soto: Driving Change Behind the Scenes at the Chicago Fire Department

Title: Project Manager

Organization: Chicago Fire Department

Age: 39

As a Project Manager for the Chicago Fire Department, Jeannette Soto represents the next generation of Latino leadership in public safety. Since 2020, she reports directly to the Deputy Fire Commissioner of Administrative Services and serves as a critical planning and strategic partner.

In her role, she acts as liaison between the Department and key City offices, including the Office of Budget Management, the Department of Human Resources, and the Office of Public Safety Administration. Her ability to navigate complex intergovernmental processes ensures that departmental operations remain efficient, fiscally responsible, and aligned with citywide priorities. She’s passionate about employee relations, working directly with first responders, candidates, retirees, and Local 2 representatives. Her superior level of customer service has earned her respect across all ranks.

A forward-thinking leader, Jeannette’s work strengthens not only internal operations but also the Department’s connection to the communities it serves. In 2023, her efforts made it possible for the Chicago Fire Department to proudly participate annually in the Little Village Mexican Independence Day Parade, recognizing and celebrating the rapidly growing Latino population within both the Department and the City of Chicago.

Beyond her formal responsibilities, Jeannette is known for her ability to manage numerous high-impact projects with competing deadlines and intersecting priorities. She volunteers her time with public safety organizations such as the 100 Club and the Chicago Police Memorial Foundation. In 2023, she was selected as a Chicago Latino Caucus Fellow and continues to support the program by fostering communication and collaboration across all cohorts.

Jeannette Soto exemplifies professionalism, integrity, and dedication to public service. Her contributions have strengthened the administrative foundation of the Chicago Fire Department while advancing workforce development and public safety outcomes citywide, making her highly deserving of this recognition.