Pilcik earns TPWD Wildlife Division Professional of the Year

AUSTIN – A Southeast Texas district wildlife biologist is the recipient of the Randy Fugate Memorial Wildlife Division Professional of the Year.

Todd Pilcik won the award, which was established in 2021 to honor a Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Wildlife Division staff member who exemplifies a positive attitude in all aspects of their work, delivers exceptional customer service, builds trusting relationships and consistently exceeds expectations in advancing the agency’s mission.

“Todd always has a positive attitude and loves his job,” said Alan Cain, TPWD Wildlife Division Director. “Like Randy Fugate, Todd maintains a lighthearted attitude, always has a smile on his face, and is always willing to assist staff when and where needed.”

Pilcik has been a part of the Wildlife Division since 1994 where he worked with the phone bank and Migratory Program at TPWD headquarters in Austin until 1997. He then transferred to San Marcos as a technician with the White-wing Dove program and in 2000, accepted a biologist position covering Lampasas, Coryell and Bell counties as a natural resource specialist.

Pilcik served in this position for nearly two years before transferring to Matagorda, Brazoria and Jackson counties. He continues to work in those counties today conducting wildlife surveys and assisting private landowners with emphasis on wildlife management.

“Todd makes the priorities of his co-workers and constituents his own,” said Cain. “He goes the extra mile to make staff feel welcomed and to get to know his constituents on a personal level. Todd is trusted by staff and constituents alike because they know he cares.”

Pilcik’s 30 years with the department lends a hand to historical knowledge and a wealth of hands-on experience. He has provided and continues to provide mentorship to staff as they begin their careers at TPWD. He has been a mainstay in helping with prescribed fires on TPWD Wildlife Management Areas as well as carrying out public hunts and providing expert wildlife technical guidance to private landowners.