Texas A&M Forest Service held its annual personnel meeting in Tyler, Texas, bringing together employees from across the state to recognize the agency’s achievements and honor employee contributions over the past year.
According to Texas A&M Forest Service, this event provided a platform to celebrate the agency’s progress in key initiatives and highlight the achievements of its workforce.
Director Al Davis addressed attendees, underscoring the agency’s advancements through programs like the Rural VFD Assistance Program, which awarded over $20 million, the Community Wildfire Protection grant with over $38 million in grants, and an additional $16 million directed to landowners and communities to support natural resources.
Reflecting on the year, Davis said: “Our agency has had a successful year of overcoming many challenges.
“This year’s personnel meeting was a great day to reflect on our growth, improvements and employee success.”
During the meeting, Texas A&M Forest Service acknowledged several employees for their dedicated service.
Employees honored included Kirk Risinger, Radio Communications Specialist IV from Hudson, and Bryan Young, Resource Specialist V from Lufkin, both celebrating 25 years with the agency.
Additionally, Michael Dunivan, Area Operations Chief from San Antonio, and Joel Hambright, Regional Operations Chief from Huntsville, were recognized for 30 years, while Ricky Holbrook, Fire Coordinator V from Livingston, was celebrated for 35 years of service.
Director Al Davis noted the importance of employee contributions to the agency’s mission, stating: “With the help of the Texas Legislature and our employees’ adaptability, we stand ready to conserve and protect Texas.”
Employees who have consistently provided service beyond their regular duties received Director’s Awards, emphasizing their dedication to advancing Texas A&M Forest Service’s mission.
Texas A&M Forest Service also presented individual awards to employees for exceptional service in their respective fields.
Donna Smith, Business Assistant III in McGregor, was awarded the Director’s Award for Support Staff Field, recognizing her role in supporting office functions and agency events, such as Texas Arbor Day and Smokey Bear events.
Adam DeWitt, Project Coordinator in College Station, received the Director’s Award for Support Staff Office for his contributions to project management and the development of FireConnect.
Kayla Walkoviak, Business Assistant II in Conroe, earned the Director’s Award for Support Staff Professional, honoring her leadership in district logistics and grant management.
Jason Ellis, District Forester IV in Jacksonville, was awarded the D.A. “Andy” Anderson Information and Education Award for his work in environmental education, engaging students from local universities and youth organizations.
The Director’s Award for Team Effort – Best Interdivisional Project was awarded to a team that enhanced the Civil Air Patrol Partnership, increasing capabilities in aerial fire detection and forest management.
This partnership, supported by a Memorandum of Understanding between Texas A&M Forest Service and the Civil Air Patrol, includes a team comprising Mike Sills, Buster Robinson, James Russell, Billy Whitworth, and Courtney Blevins.
Through this partnership, the team facilitated Wildland Fire Behavior training for Civil Air Patrol pilots and observers, furthering Texas A&M Forest Service’s efforts in wildfire detection and management across Texas.
The agency’s ongoing collaboration with Civil Air Patrol reflects a commitment to utilizing aerial resources for effective fire response and forest conservation.
Texas A&M Forest Service recently convened its annual meeting in Tyler, Texas, to honor employee contributions and celebrate agency accomplishments over the past year.
Director Al Davis highlighted significant milestones, including distributing over $74 million in funding to support wildfire prevention, resource conservation, and community engagement initiatives.
Key employee recognitions included awards for long-term service, outstanding individual performance, and collaborative team efforts, with a notable focus on a partnership with Civil Air Patrol for aerial fire detection.
