Cook Children’s Medical Center-Prosper MRI Technologist Pariss Jackson, MBA, RT(MR)(R), CRA, CPHQ, LSSGB, is this month’s rising star. She holds certifications in radiography, MRI with ARRT as well as a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt. ICE Magazine recently found out more about Jackson and her work in Prosper, Texas.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: I’m from the Mitten State – Michigan. I relocated to Texas about 2 years ago.
Q: Where did you receive your imaging training/education?
A: I completed my imaging training at Lansing Community College under the leadership of Brian Pickford. I had the honor of returning as adjunct faculty for the radiologic technology program in 2009 and MRI program in 2010.
Q: How did you first decide to start working in imaging?
A: I’ve always wanted to work in health care, but was not sure in which field. I went and saw a counselor at Lansing Community College who went over all the specialties with me: nursing, sonography, surgical technology, radiography, etc. I chose radiography, applied and was accepted.
Q: What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?
A: Being the person to get the inside story!
Q: What do you like most about your position?
A: Working in MRI imaging has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career! It’s been so fulfilling to be able to capture and analyze images to help support the diagnosis and treatment of medical issues. I’m so proud to be part of a profession that is making a real difference in people’s lives.
Q: What interests you the most about the imaging field?
A: One of the most interesting things about the imaging field is its constant evolution and the advancements in technologies used for capturing, analyzing and visualizing images. From medical imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans to satellite imagery and computer vision applications, the imaging field continues to push boundaries and unlock new possibilities. It plays a crucial role in various domains, including health care, astronomy, robotics and even art. The ability to capture and interpret visual data has revolutionized how we understand the world around us and continues to drive innovation in many industries.
Q: What has been your greatest accomplishment in your field thus far?
A: Designing and developing curricula for students in the academic and clinical settings, providing them guidance and mentorship and watching them thrive in their imaging careers.
Q: What goals do you have for yourself in the next 5 years?
A: Health care executive in a health system, fellow with the ACHE and AHRA, a published author, win a line dance award and go parasailing off the coast of Copacabana, Brazil.
