Aaron Thomas
Raleigh,NC
Summary
Communications professional with over 10 years of experience in news reporting, content creation, and media relations. Expertise in simplifying complex information for public understanding, managing crisis communications, and fostering stakeholder relationships. Aiming to apply strategic communication skills and strong writing abilities in a Public Information Officer role, enhancing public relations efforts with journalistic insight.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Reporter & Public Information Specialist
WRAL - TV
Raleigh, NC
06.2019 - Current
- Deliver breaking news coverage and in-depth stories, contributing to a 15% increase in viewer ratings during peak news hours
- Establish and maintain relationships with key public officials, law enforcement agencies, and community leaders to gather information and promote transparent communication
- Create and develop high-impact multi-platform content, ensuring accuracy and clarity while adapting content for different audiences
- Cover live events, including major public incidents, local government meetings, and emergency situations, providing real-time updates to keep the public informed
- Develop and execute a digital marketing strategy, increasing Facebook follower count from 9.6K to 12.8K followers and Instagram follower count from 4.6K to 6.6K followers in two months
- Secured two Emmy Awards for delivering live, accurate coverage on UNC campus shooting and an EF-3 tornado, utilizing advanced crisis communication skills
Reporter & Multimedia Journalist
WRIC - TV
Richmond, VA
06.2017 - 06.2019
- Executed collaborative efforts with editorial teams during live coverage, achieving a 100% on-time delivery of breaking news updates
- Managed media inquiries and public records requests
- Supervised and mentored a team of two news interns per semester, providing guidance on ethical journalism and effective communication
- Shot and edited 30+ video segments monthly using Adobe Premiere and Edius, enhancing audience engagement by 30% across digital platforms
- Led community outreach initiatives by organizing and participating in public events, enhancing station visibility and community trust
Reporter & Multimedia Journalist
WTAJ - TV
State College, PA
06.2015 - 05.2017
- Reported live on breaking stories reaching more than 270,000 households across TV and digital platforms
- Wrote and produced daily news segments and web articles, focused on local crime, public safety, and feature stories
- Developed social media strategies that grew audience engagement by 25% and helped foster a positive station image
Education
Bachelor of Arts - Communication, Journalism
North Carolina State University
Raleigh, NC12-2014
Skills
anCrisis communication
- Media relations and pitching
- Public relations and press releases
- Project management
- Press events and public service
- Audience engagement
- Content creation
- Government &
Certification
Public Information Awareness, Emergency Management Institute - FEMA, 12/05/24, Completed an Independent Study course aimed at reaffirming a dedication to serve in times of crisis.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Reporter & Public Information Specialist
WRAL - TV
06.2019 - Current
Reporter & Multimedia Journalist
WRIC - TV
06.2017 - 06.2019
Reporter & Multimedia Journalist
WTAJ - TV
06.2015 - 05.2017
Bachelor of Arts - Communication, Journalism
North Carolina State University
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