2018 Women in Construction: Lorien Barlow, Documentary Film Director of “Hard Hatted Woman”

Lorien Barlow Documentary Film Director, “Hard Hatted Woman”

Location: Nyack, NY

Education: B.A. Mills College (American Studies), M.Ed Antioch University New England (Integrated Learning)

Place of birth: Brooklyn, NY

What does your firm do and any plans for the future? Since 2014 I have been producing a theatrical-length documentary film, “Hard Hatted Woman.” We are currently in the editing stage. It will be the first feature documentary about women who work in construction trades. The goal of the project is to spotlight the opportunities and challenges tradeswomen face, to call upon the industry to set bold and meaningful goals for better recruitment and retention of women, and most important, to inspire the next generation to consider these careers.

Advice/Keys to Success: I once interviewed a plumber and she quipped, “Patience plus perseverance equals plumbing!” It equals documentary film making too! It’s been an incredible endurance challenge, but what keeps me going is the unshakeable belief in the importance of this story, and the bonds I’ve forged with the amazing women in the film.

Did you have a mentor if so who & why? If not tell us about someone living or not who you admire. My favorite childhood book was “Ms. Rumphius” and, like the best children’s books, it never loses its magic. Whenever I have doubts and fears that I’m not far enough along on my path in life, I look to Ms. Rumphius for reassurance.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years? Hopefully I’ll have a few more great films under my belt! And hopefully by then I will be able to look back and see the signs of profound and positive impact Hard Hatted Woman made on the construction industry. We’re certainly witnessing a sea change in our culture right now in the wake of #MeToo, and we cannot allow tradeswomen to be left behind. Their change is long overdue. 

If you had to choose a different profession, what would it be? A horticulturist.

Favorite novel: Ahab’s Wife by Sena Jeter Naslund

Favorite film: The Silence of the Lambs. I know that sounds so dark, but it’s breathtaking and brilliant in every way.

Hobbies: You’ll find me in the garden!