Ernesto Aguilar discovered the transformative power of public media as a teenager in East Houston. This chance encounter ignited his lifelong passion for amplifying diverse voices and creating opportunities for all Americans. Aguilar’s dedication to democracy, community engagement and inclusive media is evident throughout his extensive career. Today, Aguilar’s efforts span journalism, digital innovation, AI strategy and organizational leadership.
Aguilar’s early journalism in Houston laid a strong foundation for his later leadership at KQED in San Francisco, one of the nation’s premier public media organizations. At KQED, he currently oversees radio programming and leads the AI Working Group. His role involves initiatives that enhance community service and engagement through innovative technology. As part of that, Aguilar keeps the focus on community-driven storytelling and outreach. Previously, Aguilar convened transformative programs such as the organization’s DEI Council. Prior to his time at KQED, Aguilar supported the content, revenue and organizational capacity needs of rural and community radio stations as executive director of the National Federation of Community Broadcasters.
Beyond his executive roles, Aguilar actively contributes insights on the intersection of technology and journalism. You can read some of this work in his two newsletters: OIGO, dedicated to public media and Latino audiences; and AI and Public Media Futures, which explores the impact of generative AI on journalism and public broadcasting.
Aguilar is widely recognized as a thought leader in media innovation and diversity. His accolades include being a Sulzberger Executive Leadership Fellow, Public Media CEO/COO Bootcamp participant, AI in Journalism Leadership cohort selection and Advanced Leadership Fellow at the Robert C. Maynard Institute for Journalism Education.
Committed to lifelong learning, Aguilar earned his journalism degree with minors in sociology and Women’s Studies, a Management and Leadership Certification from the University of Houston and a Nonprofit Fund Development Certification from Rice University.
When he’s not working to advance public media, Aguilar writes about music and enjoys mentoring emerging leaders and advocating for equity in the industry.