Allison Roberts Grealis

Founder & President, Women in Manufacturing Association (WIM)

Education: Master’s degree in public administration, University of Akron; bachelor’s degree in English, Ohio University

Favorite Quote: “You can have it all, just not all at the same time.” — Betty Friedan

What Motivates Me Right Now: I am motivated by the opportunity to build a movement that transforms manufacturing through the advancement of women, while creating an enduring legacy of leadership, opportunity and industry impact.

An Important Lesson I Learned: I don’t believe work-life balance is a realistic goal because it implies that work and life exist on opposite sides of a scale that can somehow remain perfectly equal. In reality, different seasons of life and leadership require different priorities. Instead, I believe in work-life integration — aligning my professional responsibilities, personal commitments and values in a way that allows me to be fully present where I am needed most while maintaining overall well-being and fulfillment.

If I Could Star in a TV Show or Movie: I would love to venture outside of my comfort zone and be a contestant on a reality competition show like The Amazing Race.