DEI Chats with Women in Mobility: Allison Collins, Ford Motor Company

Posted: March 2, 2022

Allison Collins recognizes the importance of diverse voices in engineering—and works hard to make sure her own is heard.

“Research shows that diverse opinions in the workplace lead to more innovative business development as well as helping the bottom line,” the Ford Motor Company Materials Engineer said. “As the automotive industry tries to shift and become more flexible and mobility focused, the opinions of women and other minorities in the industry are more valuable than ever. As an early career woman, knowing this motivates me to gain technical expertise to be a part of those diverse voices the industry needs.”

Collins first got involved with SAE in 2018 when she facilitated an A World In Motion (AWIM) partnership between Ford and the Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD). She maintains a group of more than 100 Ford employees who are interested in volunteering in AWIM classrooms. In 2021, Collins was recognized for her efforts going above and beyond at SAE as a member of the Top Contributor Class for 2021.

Acting as a guide to others is just one proof point of Collins’ ability as a leader. At SAE, she’s also involved in the Volatile Organic Compounds Committee which supports the development of global specifications and procedure for the determination of volatile organic compounds from road vehicle interior materials, component, and vehicle cabin air.

She advises young women entering the field to not shy away from the hard situations, even if that means entering spaces where you don’t have all the answers.

“Don’t be afraid to ask questions—being inquisitive is a sign of intelligence, not ignorance,” Collins said. “I once worked with a woman who was incredibly smart and competent whom I admired immensely, and from watching her, I learned that it’s okay to say, ‘I don’t get it. Can you explain this to me?’”

Allison is one of the many women members of SAE International making a difference in mobility. Want to get involved? Check out SAE Membership and Community Engagement for opportunities to get involved with like-minded engineers who are pushing the world of mobility forward.