Chief Lauri Burkmire was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. She graduated from West Anchorage High School in 1981. In July of 1984, she was hired by the Airport Police & Fire Department at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport. She attended the Anchorage Police Department academy in late 1984 and the aircraft rescue fire academies in early 1985.
From 1984-1989 Chief Burkmire worked patrol duties and fire duties at the airport. In 1989, she was given the position of FAA Liaison Officer. This position coordinated FAA security requirements with the airport to ensure compliance of regulations. This included the Airport Badge and I.D. Room and permitting.
In 1994, she was promoted to Sergeant and returned to patrol and fire duties. In 1996, she was promoted to Lieutenant. During these years, she also continued to work within the FAA Liaison Section, and worked on many administrative projects.
In April of 2003, Chief Burkmire was promoted to the Captain position for the Department. These new duties included overall supervision of the shifts and specialized duties including Investigations, Training, and the Canine Program.
December of 2004, she was promoted to the Chief’s position.
Chief Burkmire has been responsible for the Department Policy Manual, Field Training Program, Evidence, Supply, Contracts and new hire process.
Chief Burkmire is the President of the Women Police of Alaska. She is also a member of the Alaska Association of Chief’s of Police, and Alaska Peace Officers Association.
Chief Burkmire’s husband, Mike is an Investigator for the Alaska State Troopers and is stationed in Palmer.