Lt. Col. (Ret.) Steve Hilliard served for 20 years on Active Duty in the U.S. Air Force after graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy. As an Officer and Mobility Pilot, he flew several different aircraft and served in a variety of flying and staff positions. He was selected to be a Squadron Commander and Deputy Group Commander at Joint Base Andrews flying senior government officials including the Vice President, First Lady, Secretary of State, Secretary of Defense, other Cabinet officials and members of Congress. This opportunity provided him with invaluable executive-level and leadership experiences as he culminated his military service.

Steve was elected to the North East ISD Board of Trustees after seeing concerns within the district and his children’s education. He focused on children and parents being the primary focus, transparency, respecting the taxpayers and fiscal discipline. He was the 1st non-incumbent to be elected in over 20 years.

During his tenure from Nov 2020 – May 2024 he constantly and consistently focused on fiscal responsibility and transparency, challenging proposed budgets and spending that were not in the best interest of the children’s academic improvement and the parents and taxpayers. Additionally, he was a strong advocate of parental rights, as the primary decision makers to direct their children’s religious/moral upbringing and education. He voted against masking of children and staff (medical freedom/parental rights). Through his previous executive experiences gained in the Air Force he was able to help drive the Board to develop a 5-year strategic plan (Balanced District Scorecard) focused on Students, Staff, Stakeholders and Stewardship to guide the District Staff and Board in decision-making.

Steve and his family enjoy living in San Antonio and being involved in the community.