About Handy Ma’am
In 2023, women made up only 6% of the 670,000 carpenters in the United States. Handy Ma’am is my response to that imbalance.
This 3-minute autobiographical experimental documentary follows my journey as a female carpenter determined to build the ultimate She Shed—a space imagined, designed, and constructed entirely by my own hands. Paired with my original spoken-word poem, “Pretty Handy Girl,” the film weaves together intimate voice, tactile imagery, and the quiet power of a woman creating her own sanctuary.
Handy Ma’am highlights carpentry not just as a trade, but as the backbone of one of our most essential human needs: shelter. At a time when shortages in the construction workforce contribute to housing crises across the country, this film shows how women’s presence in carpentry isn’t just possible—it’s necessary.
By challenging long-held assumptions about strength, skill, and who “belongs” on a job site, Handy Ma’am aims to inspire women to see themselves as builders, makers, and problem-solvers. The film encourages viewers to reconsider gender roles in the trades and invites women to approach home projects—and careers in carpentry—with confidence and curiosity.
Why This Film Matters
Handy Ma’am seeks to:
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Illuminate opportunities for women in carpentry and the skilled trades.
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Shift cultural perceptions surrounding gender and construction work.
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Encourage industry engagement by inspiring employers, unions, and training programs to actively support and recruit women.
Ultimately, the film advocates for a more diverse, creative, and inclusive carpentry industry—one where women’s talents help shape the very structures we live in.
The Story
Discover the journey of a woman's determination to create her own she-shed, showcasing the strength and creativity that embodies the spirit of Handy Ma'am.
Behind the Scenes
Handy Ma'am was filmed during a record heat wave in the Boston area. This was the filmmaker's second consecutive time filmming movies during New England Heatwaves.
Capturing the Essence
The artistry of the film lies in its juxtaposition:
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The lyrical softness of the poem against
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The ruggedness of wood, tools, and sweat, and
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The swift motion of time-lapse against
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The slow, deliberate process of learning and building.
The Filmmaker's Carpentry Background
Director Christina Hodel completed a 9 month Carpentry program at North bennet Street School prior to building the shed. She was trained in framing homes and built the "shed" like a home.
Embracing Empowerment
By blending my original poem-turned-song with time-lapse visuals of building the She Shed by hand, the film shows how determination and creative expression empower anyone to pursue their passions and dreams.
Our Commitment
"Handy Ma'am" is dedicated to showcasing the resilience and creativity of individuals, and we are committed to delivering a powerful and inspiring narrative that resonates with audiences worldwide.