Joe Cortese joined the 12 news team as a multimedia journalist in October 2022.
A native of Massachusetts, he grew up in Upton where he found a love for sports and the great outdoors.
Joe graduated in 2017 from Keene State College, earning his bachelor’s degree in journalism.
He got his first job on camera in March 2020 as a weekend anchor and weekday reporter at the FOX/ABC affiliate in Bangor, Maine. Throughout his first six months, he reported on a wide variety of stories including President Trump’s visit to Maine, the legislature, bank robberies, the COVID-19 pandemic and its effect on small business.
Joe also was the head reporter for the station’s “On the Road” show, traveling to rural towns around northern Maine and highlighting what made each place unique.
After six months, Joe was promoted to the anchor of Good Morning Maine.
Joe found his love for journalism in the heart of Maine where he made great connections with the local businesses and gave the community a voice on key issues.
Joe’s mom and dad have been his biggest supporters along with his two sisters, Jaclyn and Michaela, and he is extremely excited to be back close to home.
In his free time, he loves to hike, run, play baseball, and spend time with his two dogs, Daisy and Dakota.
Although Joe grew up in Massachusetts, he is a diehard New York Yankees and Giants fan.
Feel free to reach out to Joe with any story ideas or comments:
