Know More About David Tillman Biography: Chief Meteorologist at ABC13 Houston

“Weather is about preparation—helping families feel safe when storms approach.” — David Tillman

David Tillman is the Chief Meteorologist at ABC13 Houston (KTRK-TV), where he has been a trusted voice for more than two decades. Known for his calm delivery and expertise in severe weather forecasting, Tillman has guided Houstonians through hurricanes, floods, and heat waves, becoming one of the most respected meteorologists in Texas.

Timeline Overview

Year	Milestone
1960s	Born in St. Louis, Missouri
1980s	Graduated from Jackson State University with B.S. in Meteorology
1980s–1990s	Meteorologist at WAPT-TV Jackson, Mississippi
1990s	Meteorologist at WMC-TV Memphis, Tennessee
2000	Joined ABC13 Houston as meteorologist
2014	Promoted to Chief Meteorologist at ABC13
Present	Chief Meteorologist, leading severe weather coverage in Houston

Quick Facts

Attribute	Detail
Full Name	David Tillman
Age	Mid-50s (exact birthdate private)
Height	Approx. 5 ft 10 in
Education	B.S. Meteorology – Jackson State University
Family	Married to Teme; three children
Career	Chief Meteorologist at ABC13 Houston
Net Worth	Estimated $1–2 million
Salary	Estimated $96,000–$129,000 annually

Early Life & Education

David Tillman grew up in St. Louis, Missouri, where he developed an early fascination with weather. He pursued that passion at Jackson State University, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Meteorology. His academic training equipped him with both scientific knowledge and the communication skills needed for a career in broadcast meteorology.

Career Background

Tillman launched his career at WAPT-TV in Jackson, Mississippi, where he worked as a meteorologist covering severe weather across the Deep South. He later advanced to WMC-TV in Memphis, Tennessee, gaining additional experience in forecasting and on-air reporting.

In 2000, he joined ABC13 Houston, one of the nation’s largest television markets. Throughout his tenure, he has covered hurricanes, tropical storms, and major flooding events that have affected millions of Texans. In 2014, ABC13 promoted him to Chief Meteorologist, where he leads the station’s weather team and sets the standard for severe weather coverage in Houston.

A Photo of David Tillman Doing His Career

Achievements

Chief Meteorologist at ABC13 Houston
Coverage of major hurricanes, including Ike, Harvey, and Laura
Member of the American Meteorological Society
Known for calm, clear, and trusted severe weather communication

Personal Life

David Tillman is married to Teme, and they share three children. He often speaks about family values and community service, underscoring his belief that meteorology is not just about science—it’s about helping people stay safe.

Salary & Net Worth

Salary: Estimated $96,000–$129,000 annually as Chief Meteorologist at ABC13 Houston
Net Worth: Estimated $1–2 million, reflecting his long and steady career in broadcast meteorology

Legacy

David Tillman’s legacy centers on his ability to translate complex weather science into information viewers can understand and trust. With decades of experience, he has become a vital guide for Houston residents facing unpredictable Gulf Coast weather.

His career highlights the essential role local meteorologists play in protecting communities and keeping the public informed.