Susan Morse has edited all of Woody Allen's films since 1977. One reason for such low numbers of female members may be limiting attitudes on the part of producers and directors, not any real inabilities on the part of women. Prior to extensive union participation, people making films, including women, were under relatively less constraint regarding what jobs they could perform. Actresses could grip and paint sets. Later on there developed restrictive notions such as the idea that women were too weak to carry film cans, or set up cameras.
Many people express guarded optimism about women finding more employment today in craft areas.
Many women are concerned this toehold may not survive the recession. I happen to think it will, but I know there's a great deal of fear. I see a big difference from when I started in 1980. In addition to some of the more traditional areas of craft, there are fields such as digital effects that are growing and in need of qualified people. There are great opportunities.