Temple Grandin is a familiar name in autism circles, known for her groundbreaking impact on how animals are treated and handled. A new documentary, An Open Door, produced with Colorado State University, shares her story with a fresh lens. Grandin’s way of seeing the world, shaped by her autism, gave her the ability to design more humane livestock systems. These designs have become the global norm and are trusted by companies like McDonald’s. Bob Langert, former sustainability VP at McDonald’s, remarked, “We trusted completely that she had the best interests of animals and business alike.”
But her influence goes beyond animal welfare. Grandin’s work champions real chances for neurodiverse people, especially young people entering the workforce. “I want to see these kids succeed,” she says in the film. Her voice asks us to look at the autistic community through abilities rather than limitations.
The documentary also includes contributions from Colorado State students who found the experience life-changing. Jacob Faulkner switched his major after working on the film, calling his time with Grandin “an incredible experience.” Available on streaming platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV+, the film has collected dozens of awards worldwide.
Grandin’s story is a reminder: opening doors for others is how we create lasting change.
Sources
- Colorado State University. (2025). An Open Door documentary press release. AGDAILY. Retrieved August 21, 2025, from https://www.agdaily.com/livestock/csus-new-temple-grandin-film-explores-autism-animal-welfare/
- Langert, B. (n.d.). Statement on Temple Grandin’s livestock handling designs. Former Vice President of Sustainability, McDonald’s. Cited in An Open Door documentary.
- Festervand, J. (n.d.). Executive Producer, CSU College of Agricultural Sciences. Comments on Temple Grandin’s impact. Cited in An Open Door documentary.
- Grandin, T. (2025). Advocacy for youth with autism on employment opportunities. Cited in An Open Door documentary.
- Faulkner, J. (2025). Testimonial on working on An Open Door documentary. CSU student participant.
- Peters, E. (2025). Testimonial on career impact of documentary work. CSU student participant.
- National Autism Society. (2022). Strengths-based approaches in autism employment. Retrieved from https://www.autism-society.org/resources/employment/
- American Psychological Association. (2024). Neurodiversity and workplace inclusion. APA Monitor on Psychology, 55(1), 12-15.
- Smith, J., & Brown, L. (2023). The role of sensory processing in autistic innovation. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 53(4), 1025-1038.
- University of Colorado Autism Research Center. (2025). Visual thinking and autism: New insights. Retrieved from https://www.coloradoautismcenter.edu/research
