Arkansas Girl Power, now in its fifth year, is described in a recent press release by the organization as “a statewide movement empowering young women across Arkansas to explore high-skill, high-wage, and high-demand career pathways.” Dequeen-Mena Education Service Cooperative is the sponsor.

Tolar, a senior, said of the event and the competition, “The experience was an amazing opportunity to learn more about welding, problem solving, and using my hands to build things. Winning my division at district and my division along with People’s Choice at state was a huge accomplishment.

She also described the moment when she learned her grill had won. “When I heard my name called, I just couldn’t help but smile and fist bump my Ag teacher, because I knew my hard work and late nights in the shop had paid off.  It was a perfect last Ag Mechanics project and experience for my senior year.”

About her plans after graduation, Tolar said, “Next year, I’ll be attending SAU and taking the Pre-vet course.  I plan to take my first four years there and then go to LSU for the remainder four years.”