Nicole Jackson
Nicole Jackson is a dedicated healthcare professional, certified medical coder, and educator with over 18 years of experience in the healthcare industry. Currently serving as a Surgical Coder III at Cleveland Clinic, she specializes in coding complex women’s health procedures, including deliveries, C-sections, and other surgical services. Since earning her Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential through the American Academy of Professional Coders in 2018, Nicole has built a reputation for accuracy, compliance, and a deep understanding of the critical connection between coding, billing, and patient care outcomes.
In addition to her clinical expertise, Nicole is passionate about education and workforce development. She serves as an instructor at Cuyahoga Community College, where she equips aspiring medical coders with the knowledge, strategies, and confidence needed to succeed in certification exams and launch their careers. Drawing from her own challenging journey into coding, she is committed to mentoring others—breaking down complex concepts, sharing practical techniques, and fostering a supportive learning environment. Her leadership extends into the professional community as well, where she actively contributes to the local AAPC chapter and helps lead CPC exam review courses.
Nicole’s career reflects resilience, continuous learning, and a strong desire to uplift others. With additional credentials such as Certified Risk Adjustment Coder (CRC) and her recent Mental Health First Aid certification, she continues to expand her expertise while exploring future opportunities in auditing and compliance. Guided by a mission to be both a resource and an inspiration, Nicole is driven to help others succeed in healthcare careers while contributing to a more efficient, ethical, and patient-centered system.
• CPC (Certified Professional Coder)
• CRC (Certified Risk Adjustment Coder)
• AAPC Approved Instructor
• Bachelor's Degree in Healthcare Management
• University of Phoenix (graduating July 2026)
• Cuyahoga Community College (Tri-C)
• IT Studies
• Dean's List
• University of Phoenix
• American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC)
• Vice President of Cleveland Chapter
• Vice President
• AAPC Cleveland Chapter
• CPC Review Course Instructor (volunteer)
• Member Development Officer
• AAPC Cleveland Chapter (2023)
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best advice I received came from my counselors at school who told me 'life is happening, it's okay.' At first, I was hard on myself and felt like I had to get everything done right here and now. But they helped me understand that you have to take a step back and take time to get over certain things going on in your life. If that means taking a break, then you have to take a break. I learned this the hard way when my mom got sick and passed away. I thought I could just continue with school without taking a break, but boy, was I wrong. There's no way you can just move on. You have to give yourself time to grieve and process everything that's going on, because if you don't, you're gonna crash. I took a month or two off, and then I hopped right back on board so I could graduate in July.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't give up, first of all. Remember your why. Why are you doing this? Just whatever your why is, just remember your why. Because as long as you are focused on that, you will go far.