David Tillman Biography | Chief Forecaster & Senior Meteorologist at KTRK-TV Houston
David Tillman is the Chief Forecaster and Senior Meteorologist at KTRK-TV ABC13 in Houston, Texas. A trusted name in broadcast meteorology, Tillman has been a vital part of the ABC13 weather team since 2000.
Education and Early Career:
Born in St. Louis, Missouri, Tillman’s passion for meteorology was sparked as a child after witnessing an F-4 tornado on live television.
Tillman earned his Bachelor of Science Degree in meteorology from Jackson State University in Jackson, Mississippi.
His career began at WAPT in Jackson, Mississippi. He then went on to work for the National Weather Network, producing weather segments for numerous television and radio stations across the United States.
Before joining KTRK-TV, he worked at WMC in Memphis, where he received an Emmy for his weather coverage.
Career at KTRK-TV (ABC13 Houston):
Tillman joined KTRK-TV and has become a familiar face to Houston viewers.
After 18 years primarily working weekend forecasts, he transitioned to a Monday through Friday schedule, focusing on the 11 A.M. and 4 P.M. editions of Eyewitness News.
He was also named Chief Forecaster, sharing the chief duties with Travis Herzog for the ABC13 weather team, with his responsibilities including forecasting and severe weather training for the team.
Achievements and Recognition:
David Tillman is recognized for his expertise and calming presence during severe weather events. He was honored as a 2024 Media Powerhouse by the Houston Association of Black Journalists.
He has also been involved in discussions about the importance of diversity in meteorology and inspiring future generations.
Before his meteorology career, Tillman spent a decade in the automotive industry, repairing and marketing cars.
A basketball enthusiast, he enjoys hardware stores and is inspired by pioneering Black meteorologists like Diane White and Bryan Busby.
Age:
David Tillman was born on August 21, which makes his zodiac sign Leo. He is estimated to be around 41 years old as of 2025. He is African American and holds American nationality.
Parents and Siblings:
David Tillman was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri. However, he has kept details about his parents and siblings private, and there is limited publicly available information about his early upbringing.
Wife:
David Tillman has been married to Patricia since October 1994. Together, they have three children: David, Brianna, and Sydney.
His family remains an important part of his life, and he frequently shares his passion for basketball, especially supporting his son, who plays college basketball in Arkansas.
David Tillman Height:
David Tillman stands at 6 feet 8 inches tall and is estimated to weigh between 230 to 250 pounds.
Career and Background:
David Tillman began his career in meteorology after earning a degree in meteorology from Jackson State University.
Before joining ABC13 in Houston, he worked as a meteorologist in various markets including WAPT-TV in Jackson, Mississippi, and WMC-TV in Memphis, Tennessee.
Since joining KTRK-TV in 2000, he has become a familiar face in Houston for his accurate forecasts and calm demeanor during severe weather events. He is also active in community outreach and weather education.
WAPT in Jackson, Mississippi
David Tillman started his meteorology career at WAPT-TV after graduating from Jackson State University.
This role helped him develop essential live broadcasting skills, interpret real-time weather data, and communicate effectively with viewers.
National Weather Network
At the National Weather Network, Tillman expanded his reach by producing weather segments for 35 television stations and 45 radio stations across the country.
This experience required him to understand national weather patterns, tailor forecasts for different regions, and efficiently deliver reports on a large scale.
His exposure to diverse meteorological phenomena strengthened his expertise.
WMC-TV in Memphis
Tillman later joined WMC-TV in Memphis, a larger market that refined his broadcasting abilities.
His Emmy-winning weather coverage during a major snowstorm showcased his ability to communicate critical weather information with clarity and urgency.
This recognition solidified his reputation as a top-tier meteorologist.
KTRK-TV (ABC13 Houston)
Since 2000, Tillman has been a trusted voice at ABC13 Houston.
- Weekend Meteorologist (18 Years): His consistency on weekend broadcasts built strong viewer trust, especially during Houston’s frequent hurricanes, tropical storms, and severe thunderstorms.
- Weekday Forecaster (11 A.M. & 4 P.M.): Transitioning to weekday newscasts increased his visibility, requiring tailored forecasts for diverse audiences.
- Chief Forecaster: Sharing duties with Travis Herzog, Tillman plays a key role in severe weather coverage, training, and strategic forecasting. His leadership ensures accurate and timely weather updates for the Houston community.
David Tillman’s colleagues at ABC13 Houston:
- Travis Herzog – Chief Meteorologist
- Charly Edsitty – Multi-Media Journalist
- John B. Smith – Senior News Anchor
- Sarah Lee – Investigative Reporter
- Gina Gaston – News Anchor
- Katherine Whaley – Traffic Anchor & Reporter
- Bob Slovak – Sports Anchor
- Steve Campion – Reporter
- Elita Loresca – Weather Anchor
- Tom Koch – News Anchor
- Ted Oberg – Reporter
Net Worth and Salary:
While exact figures are not publicly disclosed, David Tillman’s estimated net worth is believed to be between $1 million and $2 million, based on his long-standing career in broadcast meteorology.
His annual salary at KTRK-TV is estimated to be in the range of $90,000 to $150,000, typical for a chief meteorologist in a major market.
Is Meteorologist David Tillman Married?
Yes, David Tillman is married to Patricia. The couple has been together since October 1994 and has three children: David, Brianna, and Sydney.
How Old Is Meteorologist David Tillman?
David Tillman has not publicly disclosed his exact birth year, but he is estimated to be around 41 years old as of 2025.
Is David Tillman related to Spencer Tillman?
There is no evidence to suggest that meteorologist David Tillman is related to former NFL running back Spencer Tillman.
Although they share the same last name, there are no public records or verified sources linking them as family members.
Where is Meteorologist David Tillman Working?
David Tillman is currently the Chief Forecaster and Senior Meteorologist at ABC13 Houston (KTRK-TV).
He has been a key part of the station’s weather team since late 2000, delivering expert forecasts and severe weather analysis.
His role includes providing daily weather updates, tracking hurricane developments, and offering critical storm coverage to keep Houston residents informed.
David Tillman is active across several social media platforms where he regularly shares weather updates and personal insights:
Facebook: He operates under “ABC13 Meteorologist David Tillman“, posting weather forecasts, community updates, and station news.
Instagram: His handle @davidtillmanabc13 features routine weather posts—like updates on rain patterns and weekend weather—showing he’s active, with recent posts as of last month.
X (Twitter): He uses the username @TillmanWeather, where he identifies himself as “Meteorologist at #ABC13, KTRK‑TV Houston.” The feed is public and regularly updated.
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