03-24 | Texas Game Warden Lt. Col. Graduates from FBI National Academy in Quantico

March 24, 2026

Media Contact: TPWD News, Business Hours, 512-389-8030

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Lt. Col. Ben Baker, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Deputy Director of Law Enforcement, was one of 253 law enforcement officers who graduated from the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia on March 18.

The 297th session of the National Academy included officers from 48 states, the District of Columbia and 26 members of law enforcement representing 24 countries, along with four military organizations and four federal civilian organizations.

Baker brings more than 15 years of experience as a Texas Game Warden to the program. A graduate of Haskell Indian Nations University with a degree in environmental science and Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi with a master’s degree in biology, Baker began his career with TPWD after graduating from the 54th Texas Game Warden Academy in 2009. He was first stationed in Starr County before transferring to San Patricio County in 2013. In 2018, he was promoted to captain game warden for the Corpus Christi District and most recently promoted to lieutenant colonel in 2024.

Texas Game Wardens have a long history of participating in the FBI National Academy, with Baker being the twentieth warden to attend.

“I firmly believe in investing in the professional development of our Texas Game Wardens to ensure they are prepared to meet the complex and evolving challenges of law enforcement,” said Col. Ron VanderRoest, TPWD Law Enforcement Director. “Sending our wardens to the FBI National Academy reflects our commitment to excellence and leadership. The Academy provides advanced training in areas such as leadership, communication and critical thinking; skills that directly enhance our effectiveness in protecting Texas’ natural resources and serving the public. Wardens who attend return with expanded knowledge, stronger professional networks and a renewed dedication to duty, benefiting both our agency and the citizens of Texas.”

Internationally known for its academic excellence, the National Academy offers 10 weeks of advanced training in leadership, communication, and physical fitness. Participants are selected based on proven leadership and professional achievement within their agencies. Since 1935, more than 56,900 officers have graduated from the FBI National Academy. For Texas Game Wardens, the training supports their role as conservation law enforcement officers, strengthening their ability to manage complex incidents, protect Texas’ natural resources and serve the public across a wide range of environments and situations.

About Texas Game Wardens

Texas Game Wardens, within the Law Enforcement Division of TPWD, are responsible for enforcing laws related to the conservation and management of natural resources and public safety through community-based law enforcement. Their mission is to provide hunting, fishing and outdoor recreation opportunities for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations. Additionally, they play a crucial role in search and rescue operations during natural disasters, exemplifying their commitment to protecting both the environment and the people of Texas.

If you witness a fishing, wildlife or boating violation in progress, please call 1-800-792-GAME (4263) immediately and report it to Operation Game Thief (OGT), Texas’ Wildlife Crime-Stoppers Program. You can also text your tip by sending the keyword TXOGT plus your tip to 847411 or through the Texas OGT App, available for iOS and Android devices. Dispatchers are available 24/7.