Ernesto completed a master’s degree in Physical Oceanography from the University of Puerto Rico, Mayaguez Campus. As a student and research assistant, he focused on numerical modeling associated with storm surges, tsunamis, and waves near the coast for CariCOOS. Currently, he is the Science and Operations Officer at NOAA National Weather Service – Weather Forecast Office (WFO) in San Juan, Puerto Rico where he ensures the scientific integrity of the hydrometeorological products and services provided to the public by the WFO and leads in joint research projects and developmental efforts. In addition, he oversees the transfer of new technologies from the research community to the operational environment, promoting the development of local forecast techniques. He also monitors and evaluates the accuracy and scientific basis of forecast and warning products and services provided by the WFO.