Erik Hernandez joined the University of North Carolina Olympic Sports Strength and Conditioning staff in August of 2010. He is responsible for wrestling, cross country, track and field throwing and multi events and fencing.  He also assists staff with swimming, men's lacrosse and other Olympic sports teams.  In addition to coaching responsibilities he oversees the internship program for Carolina Strength and Conditioning.

Before Carolina, Hernandez was a Graduate Assistant Strength Coach at University of Tulsa working primarily with football and basketball. 

Hernandez also did internships with Arizona State University and Niles North High School, along with serving as a student intern at Loyola University at Chicago.

A graduate of Loyola University Chicago, Hernandez competed in the shot put for the track and field team and still holds the school record. He received a bachelor's degree in Biology from Loyola and is also C.S.C.S certified through the National Strength and Conditioning Association.