Wendy Aguilar
Media and Communications SpecialistSacramento Fire Department
Wendy Aguilar is a seasoned journalist turned award-winning communicator and public relations professional, celebrated for her innovative approach and creative storytelling. She has earned numerous accolades, including the 2023 "Communicator of the Year Award" from the California Association of Public Information Officials, the “Rising Influencer of the Year” by the Public Relations Society of America California Capital Chapter, and first place for "Best Social Media Account" in 2023 by the International Firefighters Association.
Currently serving as the Media and Communications Specialist for the Sacramento Fire Department and co-founder of Second Alarm Communications Group, Wendy is a dynamic storyteller, a champion of diversity and inclusion, and a recognized industry leader.
Wendy’s journey began in journalism, where she honed her skills as a television reporter, anchor, and producer for various networks, including ABC, CBS, CW, and Telemundo affiliates. Her reporting career took her across multiple states, from Arizona to Texas and back to California.
In 2018, Wendy transitioned into public relations, initially as a communications specialist for a local school district, before joining the Sacramento Fire Department. Her groundbreaking social media campaigns, including the celebrated "What's for Lunch?" and “I AM SACRAMENTO FIRE” series, have redefined how public agencies connect with their audiences, offering captivating, behind-the-scenes insights into firehouse life and fostering strong community engagement.
In 2021, Wendy launched the Sacramento Fire Department’s TikTok account, which has since grown to over 123,000 followers and accumulated more than 2.3 million likes, with several videos reaching viral status. She also took the department's Instagram account from 23,000 followers to over 134,000, making it the department's largest social media platform. By pivoting her strategy to focus on Reels and video content, Wendy combines informative, fun, and creative storytelling that resonates with audiences, building a solid and engaged following for the department.
Bilingual in English and Spanish and currently learning Italian, Wendy brings a multilingual approach to her work, allowing her to connect authentically with diverse communities. Her journey from journalism to public relations demonstrates the power of storytelling in fostering understanding, resilience, and unity across communities.