Job Service North Dakota Leader Steps Down After Impactful Tenure
Gov. Kelly Armstrong on Tuesday thanked Job Service North Dakota Executive Director Pat Bertagnolli for his leadership following the announcement of Bertagnolli’s retirement, effective June 12.
“Pat brought an unmatched energy and enthusiasm to Job Service. Whether here in North Dakota or traveling outside the state, he was quick to tell anyone and everyone about our abundant job opportunities and great communities,” Armstrong said. “Under Pat’s leadership, Job Service made significant strides in removing barriers to employment and helping jobseekers find employers. He went the extra mile to inform students about the quality career opportunities right here at home and address workforce needs through a variety of programs. We deeply appreciate Pat’s service and wish him all the best in his next chapter.”
Bertagnolli has led Job Service North Dakota since February 2022. During his tenure, the agency advanced workforce priorities and earned strong national rankings in both Workforce Services and Unemployment Insurance.
Partnerships were expanded during that time, including continued work with the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation through the Job Placement Partnership. The H-2A temporary agricultural visa program also expanded.
Employer resources were increased through webinars focused on work-based learning, labor market information, veteran hiring and opportunities for justice-involved individuals. A Legislative Open House was established to strengthen connections between lawmakers and state agencies. Through service on the state Career and Technical Education Board, Job Service also supported youth engagement and workforce alignment efforts.
“It has been a privilege to serve the people of North Dakota and to work with the exceptional team at Job Service North Dakota,” Bertagnolli said. “The advancements made in recent years reflect their unwavering commitment to reliable service and the robust partnerships that connect agencies, communities and employers statewide. I remain sincerely grateful for Gov. Armstrong’s leadership, for the collaboration that enabled this work and for the relationships that have been strengthened throughout North Dakota.”
Bertagnolli has served on the state Workforce Development Council since 2014. Before joining Job Service, he worked as director of the Rough Rider Center in Watford City and spent eight years in human resources following a 22-year career with UPS.
A search for a new executive director will begin immediately.
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