Bringing my authentic self to work: A RTX leader on balance and leadership

A neurodiverse leader, Alison Faye Johnson values the support she receives at work. The Global Trade Sr. Manager at Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, is empowered by a culture that supports inclusivity.

“I don’t have to hide any aspect of myself,” she said.

We spoke with Johnson about how she achieves work-life balance (hint: there’s no “one-size-fits-all" model), prioritizes her mental health, and more.

Tell us a bit about your job. What’s your current role, how long have you been in this role, and what were you doing previously?

I work within the Military Engines Global Trade group, providing expertise on different subjects, including change management, export authorizations, global risk review, digital technology strategy, training and communication, and audits and facilities management. I’ve been in the role for about a year. Prior to that, I worked as the export authorizations management manager for all of P&W.

Paint a picture of a typical day for me. What’s the first thing you do when you wake up and the last thing you do before you go to sleep?

I wake up super early, shower, look at my schedule for the day, give my 17-year-old son breakfast, pack his lunch, send some early morning emails, get my son off to school and work.

When my son gets home from school, I get him started on homework (all while working remotely). I finish up my workday by looking at what I have on deck for the next day. Then, I cook dinner, eat with my son, enjoy some downtime (e.g. TV, internet and games) and then sleep. 

Attaining work-life balance can’t be done solo. What people, resources, and tools do you rely on to get it all done?

For our family, schedules rule. My son and I are both neurodiverse, so we crave structure. We use group calendar apps religiously. I’m also a planner (that includes planning our vacations and trips way in advance). 

I have a core group of three friends who are my sounding board, my trusted advisors and my shoulder to lean on if I need them.

What does “balance” mean to you, and in what ways do you feel like you’ve achieved it?

To me, balance means multiple things. 

It means having routine and structure, as well as prioritizing self-care. I’ve found balance by reminding myself that I can only change the things that are within my control. I’ve also prioritized my mental health. If something doesn’t serve my mental health, I work to avoid or eliminate it.

What’s one misconception you think exists around work-life balance today?

The biggest misconception about work-life balance is that it’s the same for everyone. There’s no one-size-fits-all option; in truth, it looks different for each of us based on our personal circumstances, career demands, and individual preferences.

What’s your go-to stress-relief activity or routine?

My go-to stress-relief activity or routine is a nice, luxurious bath. I have a whole routine, from candles and bath bubbles to oils and bath bombs. I vary the scents based on my stress level, using essential oils. For example, I use lavender when I need to sleep, eucalyptus when I need a pick-me-up, and vanilla for comfort.

What kinds of boundaries have you established to separate work and family time?

I block off time on my work calendar when I have a family event or activity. I also have my normal available hours on my calendar. This way, if someone contacts me outside of those hours, they understand that my response will be delayed. 

When I’m on PTO, I completely disconnect from work. I make sure to put my upcoming out-of-office days in my email signature, so people are aware.

How did you prepare for maternity leave and what advice can you offer to other moms who are expecting their first child?

I created a transition plan for those who were covering my tasks while I was going to be out of the office. I separated the plan into four sections: projects, tasks, training and communication. This was a concise and organized way to show everything I was working on, project statuses and next steps.

My advice to other moms expecting their first child is to make sure that your files and information are available to those covering your tasks while you’re on leave.

How long were you on maternity leave, and what was it like to return to work?

I was on maternity leave for eight weeks, and I honestly couldn’t wait to return to work. I gave birth in January, and it was a snowy, cold, long winter. Returning to work was fabulous, even with being separated from my child. I didn’t realize how much I had craved social interaction those eight weeks I was out of work, and coming back was a return to my normal routine (with some baby changes to it).

What type of programs does your company offer to new and expectant mothers?

There are many different resources for new and expectant mothers at RTX. We have a Working Moms Group, 4 weeks of Parental Leave, support groups, lactation rooms and breaks, health and wellness rooms, and so many others!

Why do you think your company is a particularly great place to be a working mom? 

I have been at Pratt & Whitney/RTX for over 25 years — about eight years before I became a mom and 17 since then. The main reason I’ve stayed is the flexibility the job offers. 

When I was on site, I had a flexible time arrangement for my 40 hours a week, so I didn’t have to miss any personal appointments for my son or his autism services. I attribute much of my son’s progress over the last 17 years to the fact that I was able to be present and active with his learning and activities. Being part of the ERGs also gave me insight into state programs I wasn’t aware of and the resources available to me (both inside and outside the company). Plus, I’m able to surround myself with a supportive community.

What are you especially good at as a mom? What about at work?

As a mom, I excel at planning. My son and I both crave routine, so I’ve become adept at planning out an entire month and regularly scheduling fun things to do.

At work, I’m especially good at organizing projects. Spreadsheets, databases, and plans are my strengths. I love to be a liaison also between two groups who are working in silos and bring them together for a common cause.

What’s your #1 tip for new moms who are navigating the delicate balance of working and mothering?

Take. Care. Of. You.

First and foremost, you need to make sure YOU are okay. Coming back to work after having a child can be traumatic, but it doesn’t need to be. By paying attention to your needs, both physically and mentally, you’ll ensure that both you and your child have the best of both worlds. Go slow. There’s no rush, and you don’t need to be perfect.