Texas Hunter Education Instructors Association

About THEIA

Supporting the instructors and volunteers who help make hunting safer, more responsible, and more knowledgeable across Texas.

WHO WE ARE

A Texas Association Built by Hunter Education Instructors

The Texas Hunter Education Instructors Association (THEIA) is a nonprofit organization created by volunteer hunter education instructors to support and strengthen hunter education throughout Texas.

THEIA works in concert with the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department and its Hunter Education Program. Through education, outreach, instructor support, and opportunities to connect, the association helps promote safe, responsible, and knowledgeable hunting.

Our members share a commitment to helping new generations develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes needed to enjoy Texas hunting traditions responsibly.

OUR PURPOSE

Education That Carries Forward

Hunter education is about more than completing a course. It is about helping people make informed decisions, understand their responsibilities, respect wildlife, and carry safe hunting practices into the field.

Safety

Encouraging practices that reduce hunting-related accidents and injuries.

Responsibility

Promoting ethical behavior, good judgment, and respect for others.

Education

Supporting instructors who share essential knowledge and skills.

Tradition

Helping future generations appreciate Texas hunting traditions.

OUR HISTORY

Supporting Hunter Education Since 1995

THEIA was incorporated in 1995 by volunteer hunter education instructors who wanted to support and help improve the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Hunter Education Program.

1995

Association Incorporated

Established as a nonprofit organization by volunteer hunter education instructors.

1996

Federal Tax-Exempt Recognition

Recognized by the IRS as a tax-exempt private foundation under section 501(c)(3).

2008

Public Charity Status

THEIA’s classification changed to public charity status under section 509(a)(2).

The association continues to bring instructors together around a shared commitment to hunter education, volunteer service, and Texas outdoor traditions.

SUPPORTING OUR INSTRUCTORS

The People Behind Hunter Education

Certified instructors are central to the success of the Texas Hunter Education Program. They dedicate their time, experience, and knowledge to helping others become safer and more responsible hunters.

THEIA supports this work by encouraging professional connections, educational opportunities, outreach, and recognition of volunteer service.

INSTRUCTOR RESOURCES

VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP

Guided by Those Who Serve

THEIA is governed by volunteer officers and directors elected by its membership. These individuals help guide the association, represent its members, and support the organization’s work throughout Texas.

Learn more about the people serving the association, its regional representation, and its governing documents.

BECOME PART OF THEIA

Help Carry Hunter Education Forward

Connect with fellow instructors, support hunter education, and help strengthen the tradition of safe, responsible hunting throughout Texas.

EXPLORE MEMBERSHIP