Make Your Voice Heard: Take the Hunter Education Instructor Survey

Texas Parks and Wildlife values the dedication, insight, and experience of our Hunter Education Instructors—and now is your chance to help shape the future of the program. We are asking all instructors to take a few moments to complete the Hunter Education Instructor Survey. This brief but important survey will help us better understand your experiences, challenges, and suggestions for improvement. Just click on the link above to take this brief survey.

Your feedback is essential as we work to strengthen and modernize Hunter Education across the state. From course delivery and communication to resources and instructor support, your responses will guide meaningful updates that benefit both educators and the next generation of hunters. The survey is designed to be quick and easy to complete, but the impact of your participation will be long-lasting.

Please don’t miss this opportunity to be heard. The strength of the Texas Hunter Education Program comes from the dedication of its volunteers—your input will help ensure the program continues to evolve and thrive. Thank you in advance for your time and commitment to safe, ethical hunting in Texas.

A Fond Farewell to Monica Bickerstaff: A Legacy of Leadership and Dedication

It is with both deep appreciation and heartfelt well-wishes that we bid a fond farewell to Monica Bickerstaff, longtime North Texas Education Training Specialist and Regional Leader for Texas Parks and Wildlife. Since stepping into her role in 2013, Monica has been a cornerstone of the Hunter Education Program, dedicating decades of her life to mentoring, educating, and inspiring safe, ethical hunting practices across the state of Texas. Her impact reaches far beyond her region, touching the lives of thousands who have benefited from her wisdom, energy, and tireless commitment.

Monica’s dedication to the hunting community is nothing short of legendary. A certified Huntmaster through the Texas Wildlife Association (TWA), she has played a pivotal role in shaping the experiences of youth and adult hunters alike. Whether leading field days, mentoring youth hunts, or supporting instructor workshops, Monica brought unmatched professionalism, a passion for teaching, and a personal warmth that made every student and colleague feel valued. Her ability to connect with people and instill in them a true sense of responsibility and stewardship is a testament to her effectiveness as an educator and leader.

Over the span of her incredible career, Monica has instructed and influenced thousands of hunters of all ages, ensuring that generations of Texans understand the importance of safety, conservation, and respect for wildlife. Her efforts have not only helped build a safer hunting community but have also contributed significantly to the preservation of Texas' outdoor heritage. Fellow instructors, Huntmasters, and TPWD staff all recognize Monica as someone who led by example—with humility, strength, and an unshakable love for the outdoors.

As she steps into retirement, we celebrate Monica’s achievements and express our gratitude for her unwavering service. Though she’ll be greatly missed in her official role, her influence will continue to resonate throughout the program for years to come. Thank you, Monica, for your decades of dedication, your guidance, and your extraordinary legacy. You have left Texas better than you found it—and that is the highest mark of all.

Matt Smith, Hunter Education Coordinator

South Texas Buckskin Brigades: Building Tomorrow’s Conservation Leaders

The 2025 South Texas Buckskin Brigades Youth Leadership Camp was held June 8–12 at the historic Chaparrosa Ranch in Zavala County, just south of La Pryor. This year’s camp welcomed 16 cadets, ages 13 to 17, along with 4 assistant herd leaders and 4 adult leaders, all selected through a competitive application process managed by the Brigades Committee. One of nine youth leadership camps hosted across Texas each summer—including the North and South Texas Buckskin, Bobwhite, Waterfowl, Bass, and Ranch Brigades—this immersive program helps young Texans build essential skills in wildlife conservation, land stewardship, and leadership.

The mission of the Brigades program is to develop future conservation ambassadors by equipping youth with knowledge in wildlife and fisheries management, as well as public speaking and critical thinking. Through hands-on field instruction, leadership training, and presentations from professionals in the field, participants gain a deeper understanding of natural resource management and the role they can play in protecting Texas' outdoor heritage. This year's camp featured a wide range of instruction, including an archery session led by Cole Pulpan, TPWD Wildlife Biologist, who demonstrated key steps for successful shooting.

Brock Minton, South Texas Hunter Education Training Specialist for TPWD, also played a key role by leading a precision shooting session, helping cadets understand the importance of marksmanship in ethical hunting and wildlife management. The energy, engagement, and dedication of all involved once again made the South Texas Buckskin Brigades a powerful experience for participants and a meaningful investment in the future of conservation.

Submitted by Brock Minton, South Texas Hunter Education Training Specialist, TPWD

Texas Youth and Families Compete in Clay Sports

The Texas Ag Clays competition once again brought together hundreds of youth shooting sports enthusiasts at the prestigious National Shooting Complex in San Antonio, and this year’s event saw significant support from Daniel Stedman, Texas Parks and Wildlife’s Shooting Sports Coordinator, and the TPWD team. As one of the premier youth clay target events in the state, Texas Ag Clays provides young shooters with the opportunity to showcase their skills in a competitive but supportive environment that celebrates marksmanship, discipline, and sportsmanship. With over 500 competitors and family members in attendance, the event was a huge success.

Daniel Stedman and the TPWD Shooting Sports staff played a vital role in making this year's event a success, assisting with event planning, logistical coordination, and equipment support. From ensuring ranges were properly outfitted to providing technical expertise, their hands-on involvement helped create a safe and seamless experience for all participants. Their commitment reflects TPWD’s broader mission to foster youth involvement in shooting sports as a gateway to safe hunting practices and conservation-minded recreation.

Financial backing for the event was made possible in part through TPWD’s partnership with the Texas State Rifle Association (TSRA). This collaboration allowed TPWD to provide vital funding for event infrastructure and participant support, ensuring the competition remained accessible to young shooters from across Texas. It also highlights the powerful impact of public-private partnerships in advancing outdoor education and shooting sports opportunities.

Thanks to the hard work of Daniel and the TPWD team, as well as the ongoing collaboration with TSRA, Texas Ag Clays continues to serve as an inspiring platform for youth to grow their confidence and skills in the field. Their support demonstrates how the agency is investing in the next generation of safe, skilled, and responsible firearm users—many of whom will become tomorrow’s conservation leaders and hunter education advocates.

Girls' Outdoor Workshop Empowers the Next Generation of Outdoor Women

On a warm and sunny Texas day, over 50 young girls and their family members gathered at Lockhart State Park for a memorable and empowering event: the Girls' Outdoor Workshop. Designed for girls ages 10 to 18, the event aimed to introduce and inspire a love for the outdoors through hands-on experiences in shooting sports, fishing, and archery. The workshop was skillfully coordinated by Lauren Hartwick, Lockhart State Park Interpreter, whose leadership and passion for outdoor education helped ensure the event’s success.

Participants rotated through a variety of interactive stations led by a talented group of female and male instructors dedicated to mentoring the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts. The Air Rifle station was led by experienced instructors Cheryl Lejune and Mark Darby, who introduced safe firearm handling and precision shooting techniques. At the Archery station, Jessica Bush and Kailan Neff guided participants through the fundamentals of archery, helping them build confidence and accuracy with every shot.

The Fishing station brought even more smiles, as girls learned casting, baiting, and how to reel in their catch under the expert guidance of Patricia Todd, Lee Ann Thierry, and Brittany Beane. Each station was designed not only to build skills, but also to spark curiosity, boost confidence, and demonstrate just how fun and accessible outdoor recreation can be for young women. With family members cheering them on and nature providing the perfect backdrop, the day was full of achievement, laughter, and newfound passion for the outdoors.

Events like the Girls' Outdoor Workshop reflect the heart of Texas Parks and Wildlife’s mission to connect Texans to nature and each other. The energy and enthusiasm from participants and volunteers alike brought the TPWD slogan to life: “Life’s Better Outside.” Thanks to the efforts of Lauren Hartwick and her outstanding team of instructors, these young girls left Lockhart State Park with new skills, new friendships, and a lifelong appreciation for outdoor adventure.

Charles Edenfield Jr. Honored with 2024 Hunter Education Legacy Award

North Texas Hunter Education Training Specialist Monica Bickerstaff recently had the privilege of meeting with longtime volunteer instructor Charles Edenfield Jr. of Saginaw to present him with one of the prestigious 2024 Hunter Education Instructor Legacy Awards. This recognition honors instructors who have demonstrated exceptional service, dedication, and long-term impact within the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Hunter Education Program.

Since becoming a certified instructor in 2017, Charles has gone above and beyond in his mission to teach safe, responsible, and ethical hunting practices to the next generation. He quickly established a strong and lasting partnership with Shoot Smart – Fort Worth, a respected training facility where he has regularly hosted Hunter Education student courses for nearly a decade. His consistent presence and professionalism have made his courses a staple in the community for aspiring hunters of all ages.

Through his hard work and dedication, Charles Edenfield Jr. has personally certified over 6,000 students—a truly remarkable milestone that speaks to both the quality and quantity of his instruction. Beyond the numbers, however, it’s the positive influence he’s had on his students, the local hunting community, and fellow instructors that truly defines his legacy. His ability to connect with learners, instill confidence, and promote a culture of safety has made him a role model within the program.

Texas Parks and Wildlife extends a heartfelt thank you to Charles for his outstanding commitment to Hunter Education in Texas. Volunteers like him are the backbone of our program and help ensure that hunting remains a safe and respected tradition across the state. Congratulations, Charles—you’ve earned your place as a Legacy Award recipient, and your contributions will continue to make a difference for years to come.

Republic Gun Club Named 2024 Texas Hunter Education Partner of the Year

Texas Parks and Wildlife is proud to recognize Republic Gun Club – Woodway as the recipient of the 2024 Texas Hunter Education Partner of the Year Award. Monica Bickerstaff, North Texas Hunter Education Training Specialist, presented the award to Ray Bottenfield and his dedicated team of volunteer Hunter Education instructors at the club in appreciation of their outstanding service, growth, and commitment to advancing safe and ethical hunting practices in Central Texas.

The Republic Gun Club’s instructor team got its start in 2022, with founding members Ray Bottenfield and Shane Phillips completing certification and quickly bringing others from their organization into the Hunter Education fold. Although course attendance was slow at first, the team stayed the course and gradually saw a significant increase in demand once Hunter Education became a regular part of the club’s programming. Today, their classes are a valuable resource for the Waco region and beyond.

Their reputation for quality instruction and professionalism has even led to invitations from surrounding communities where Hunter Education opportunities have historically been limited. By traveling to these areas, the Republic Gun Club instructors are filling critical gaps in outreach, helping to ensure more Texans can receive the training needed to become safe, legal, and responsible hunters.

TPWD also extends special thanks to the Republic Gun Club team for their flexibility and support during the Lake Waco mentored hunt, when inclement weather forced a last-minute relocation of live-fire activities indoors. Their willingness to step up under pressure reflects the true spirit of partnership. Congratulations to Team Republic Gun Club, and thank you for being a vital part of Hunter Education in Texas—your dedication is making a real difference across the region.

Submitted by Monica Bickerstaff, North Texas Hunter Education Training Specialist, TPWD

Congratulations to the Newest BARI Graduates!

A big congratulations goes out to the most recent Basic Air Riflery Instructor (BARI) class, which successfully graduated on June 17th! This dedicated group of instructors completed their training under the guidance of Randy Spradlin, TPWD’s West Texas/Panhandle Hunter Education Training Specialist, and Brock Minton, South Texas Hunter Education Training Specialist. The class was held at the outstanding Arlington ISD Archery Center, a state-of-the-art facility that provided an ideal setting for hands-on instruction and marksmanship training.

Special thanks to the Arlington ISD Archery Center for generously hosting this important training event and supporting the growth of youth shooting sports in Texas. The Student Air Rifle (SAR) Program is a powerful tool for introducing students to safe and responsible firearm handling in a school-friendly format. We encourage Hunter Education Instructors to consider becoming a BARI-certified instructor and help bring SAR to their communities. Whether you assist at local events or lead your own trainings, your involvement can make a lasting impact on youth firearm safety and education.

Exciting Career Opportunities Coming Soon with Hunter Education!

Are you passionate about teaching safe, responsible hunting and ready to take your commitment to the next level? The Texas Parks and Wildlife Hunter Education Team is looking for experienced, enthusiastic instructors to join us full-time! A new position will be opening soon: the Central/West Texas Training Specialist, covering a wide region from Robertson County west to El Paso, based out of our Austin office. If you've ever wanted to turn your dedication to outdoor education into a rewarding career, this is your chance!

These role offers flexible work schedules, travel opportunities, and the chance to build strong relationships with instructors, volunteers, and communities across the state. As a full-time TPWD team member, you'll also enjoy health and retirement benefits and play a key part in expanding hunter education in Texas. Keep an eye on the Texas Parks and Wildlife Career Page for the upcoming job posting—or call 512-389-8140 if you're interested and have questions. Get ready to help shape the future of outdoor education—this could be the start of your next big adventure! Click the link below to find out more about career opportunities with TPWD

Communications - Jobs & Careers at TPWD - TPWD