George Pilko is founder and chairman of Pilko & Associates, the leading advisor to corporate officers and boards on Operational/EHS Risks. From his creation of the firm 45 years ago, George recognizes the problem of continually escalating catastrophic risk and is determined to address it. He is passionate about supporting companies to achieve safe, reliable and sustainable operations by providing “Brutally Honest Yet Respectful” advice.

George established ongoing Transaction Roundtables (1999), Governance Forums (2004) and Director Workshops (2017), which bring together corporate officers and boards of leading companies to share Best Practices for managing Operational/EHS Risks. To date, the firm has hosted 150+ such events.

His current focus is working with an elite group of directors to define Best Practices for Board Governance with the intent that boards globally adopt these practices.

George and his wife Jan split their time between Houston, Texas; Park City, Utah; and Italy. Their passions include their three children and their families including four very cute grandchildren, traveling, and supporting various charitable causes.

He is a Chemical Engineering and MBA graduate of the University of Michigan and remains an avid alumnus.  In fact, George and Jan are 2024 recipients of the David B. Hermelin Award for Fundraising Volunteer Leadership.  This award goes to University of Michigan alumni and friends who help raise funds, inspire others to get involved, and host events that help advance the university’s objectives.