Gilbert Baez has been a fixture in the Fayetteville news scene for over three decades, bringing a blend of experience, expertise, and passion to his role as a news reporter. Since 1998, he has been a trusted face on WRAL-TV, where he covers a diverse range of stories with a commitment to accuracy and timeliness.

Before joining WRAL-TV, Gilbert spent sixteen years at WTVD-TV in Durham, where he served as both a weather anchor and news reporter from 1996 to 2012. His broadcasting career began in 1986 at WKFT in Fayetteville, where he honed his skills as a weather anchor and photojournalist.

In addition to his broadcast work, Gilbert has made significant contributions to education, serving as an adjunct professor of communications at Campbell University from 1990 to 2005. He has also lent his expertise to community relations efforts, having worked as a community relations specialist for Cumberland County Schools in 1995.

Gilbert's dedication to journalistic excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including a prestigious National Edward R. Murrow Award in 1995 for his coverage of a tragic event involving Fort Bragg soldiers. His commitment to accuracy and integrity is summed up in his news philosophy: "Get it first, and get it right!"

Gilbert earned his Bachelor of Arts in English with a special emphasis in radio and TV broadcasting from Central State University in 1978. His military service includes time as a communications officer in the U.S. Army at Fort Bragg from 1978 to 1981, during which he earned his Ranger Tab in 1977 from the U.S. Army Ranger School at Fort Benning.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Gilbert is an active member of his community. With over three decades of experience as a radio announcer, program, and news director, as well as a stint as a night club disc jockey, he brings a wealth of entertainment experience to his role as the host of a popular karaoke night in Fayetteville. Gilbert is an avid golfer and enjoys spending time with his family, including his five daughters, two sons, and numerous grandchildren.

Having grown up in Philadelphia, Gilbert has developed a deep appreciation for the beauty and diversity of North Carolina. He particularly enjoys the state's pleasant weather, which allows him to indulge in his passion for golf year-round. He finds Fayetteville to be a unique and vibrant community, enriched by the diversity of its residents, especially the service members who make it their home after retiring from the military.

Among Gilbert's most memorable assignments is his coverage of the first Gulf War in 1991. His reporting on the deployment of Fort Bragg soldiers to oust Saddam Hussein from Kuwait earned him recognition for his dedication and insight into the lives of those serving in the Armed Forces.

For Gilbert, Fayetteville isn't just a place he reports on—it's home. Over the past 35 years, he has embraced the city's diversity and rich culture, finding inspiration in the stories of its residents and the unique role it plays in the lives of service members and their families.