The Girl Power to the Max, Next Level initiative is a partnership between 7 Education Service Cooperatives and a Division of Career and Technical Education Innovation Grant aiming to promote female participation and refine skills in high-need, high-wage, and high-demand areas. Female high school students will showcase their talents using advanced CNC technology equipment for wood cutting, metal cutting, or lasering. Local industries and stakeholders will be present to offer judging and insight into potential careers in the area.

The winners from each category will receive prize money, UAHT Scholarships, and the opportunity to advance to the State Girl Power Competition, scheduled to take place at the Saline County Career Center on March 7, 2024.

Shannon Puckett, SWAEC Career and Technology Education Coordinator expressed, "The Girl Power contests will allow over 300 girls to gain valuable H3 skills, preparing them for non-traditional careers in our future workforce. We cannot thank our host and sponsors enough for coming together to help invest in our girls." SWAEC and DESC extend their gratitude to all the sponsors who contributed to the success of this year's event.