Memorial Heroes: Marcos Olivas, Education Development Coordinator

What is your official title?

Education Development Coordinator

How long have you worked here at Memorial Medical Center?

I have been working for Memorial for three and half years.

How did you come into this position?

I have been trying to get a job here at Memorial for a very long time when I was given the opportunity to work in Central Scheduling. After about 8 months in that department a job opened in the Education Department and I applied and have been here ever since. Working within those different departments I have gained so much knowledge that has made me a stronger healthcare worker overall.

What was your motivation for a career in Healthcare?

Ever since I was young, I loved helping people. That passion grew stronger as I grew older. At the age of 14 I got my workers permit and started working at Aspen Ridge Lodge, a Senior Living Provider, in Los Alamos, NM. From there I moved to Las Cruces and worked with Good Samaritan Society for 8 years. There I worked many positions from housekeeping, dietary, Certified Nursing Assistant, Admin and much more. Working these different positions makes me appreciate all aspects of the healthcare system. My overall career goal would be a CEO of a healthcare organization within my lifetime.

What is a typical day like for you?

A typical day for me is mostly helping employees with educational needs and assisting patients and visitors with issues that may arise. You’ll see me everywhere and anywhere at the same time. I truly love helping everyone and when I see the breath of relief after issues have been resolved that’s the best reward for me. 

How would you describe your role’s responsibilities?

Some call me a jack of all trades and a master of none because I’m constantly learning new roles and responsibilities. Knowledge is the best power to have, so I soak everything up like a sponge! Being in the Education Department comes with many responsibilities for my role. I assist our team with creating many projects, help oversee that education courses get done and assist other departments with questions or issues they may have with certain educational software that we utilize. We want to make sure that our software that we have is user friendly and not an obstacle. I make sure to always tell everyone never hesitate to call me. Never feel like that have a “dumb” question because believe me I’ve heard them all, and I’m here to help you!

In what areas do you help patients?

Currently I have my Certified Nursing Assistance Certification and  help with patients on the floors, but I am called out as needed.  Actual patient care I do seldom but it’s like riding a bike when I do need to jump back in. My primary interaction with patients is when I’m walking the halls and they’ll stop to ask me questions and I’m always happy to help them. 

What are some of your interests outside of work?

I currently own two businesses. I own my own photography company and social media management company. Those side jobs primarily take up most of my extra time outside of work but when I do have free time, I enjoy relaxing and hanging out with my friends and family. 

What is your favorite part about working for Memorial Medical Center?

The best part about working at Memorial is the family feeling you get throughout the hospital. It really is my home away from home. Everyone cares for each other and everyone always helps each other out. The best teams are the teams that work together.

Also having my fellow coworkers nominate and vote for me to be the Shining Star of the Year in 2019, which I’m still very much grateful for!