North Dakota governor recognizes impact of Job Service director Pat Bertagnolli following retirement announcement
Bismarck, North Dakota – North Dakota is preparing for a leadership transition at one of its key workforce agencies as Job Service North Dakota Executive Director Pat Bertagnolli announced he will retire, with his final day set for June 12. The announcement prompted recognition from state leaders, including Gov. Kelly Armstrong, who pointed to Bertagnolli’s work over the past several years as a driving force behind workforce improvements across the state.
Bertagnolli has led Job Service North Dakota since February 2022, guiding the agency through a period focused on connecting workers with employers and addressing workforce shortages. His time in the role has been marked by efforts to expand opportunities, strengthen partnerships, and improve access to employment resources for residents across North Dakota.
“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 job seekers 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.”
Leadership focused on workforce growth and access
During his tenure, Bertagnolli worked alongside his team to move forward a number of workforce priorities. Job Service North Dakota earned strong national rankings in both its Workforce Services and Unemployment Insurance divisions, reflecting improved performance and service delivery.
The agency also strengthened its partnership with the state Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, continuing to build the Job Placement Partnership. This effort focused on helping justice-involved individuals find work and reintegrate into the workforce. At the same time, the H-2A temporary agricultural visa program saw notable expansion, helping employers in agriculture meet seasonal labor needs.
Bertagnolli also helped broaden the agency’s support for employers through a growing lineup of webinars. These sessions covered topics such as work-based learning, labor market data, hiring veterans, and creating opportunities for individuals reentering the workforce after involvement with the justice system. In addition, a Legislative Open House was established to strengthen communication between lawmakers and state agencies, helping ensure workforce efforts stayed aligned with broader state priorities.
Through his role on the state Career and Technical Education Board, Bertagnolli also supported programs aimed at engaging young people and preparing them for careers within the state.
Career built on service and community engagement
Before leading Job Service North Dakota, Bertagnolli had already built a long career rooted in workforce and community development. He served on the state’s Workforce Development Council starting in 2014, giving him years of experience working on employment-related issues.
He also spent three years as director of the Rough Rider Center and community enhancement in Watford City. Prior to that, he worked in human resources management for eight years, following a 22-year career with UPS. These roles helped shape his approach to workforce challenges and community engagement.
“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.”
Agency impact and next steps
Job Service North Dakota plays a central role in the state’s workforce system. The agency employs about 159 full-time staff members along with 76 temporary employees and manages a biennial budget of $79.1 million. It oversees multiple federal grants tied to workforce and unemployment services.
With nine workforce centers located across the state, the agency connects job seekers with employers while working closely with schools, local organizations, and business groups. Its Unemployment Insurance services, based in Bismarck, provide income support to eligible workers and help stabilize the state’s economy during periods of job loss.
As Bertagnolli prepares to step down, state officials have already begun the search for his replacement. The transition marks the end of a chapter defined by expanded partnerships and steady progress, while also opening the door for new leadership to continue shaping North Dakota’s workforce future.
