North Dakota Job Service Director Announces Retirement

Pat Bertagnolli to step down after leading the department for years.

Mar. 18, 2026 at 4:58pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The executive director of Job Service North Dakota, Pat Bertagnolli, is retiring effective June 12th. Governor Kelly Armstrong praised Bertagnolli's leadership, stating the department has "made significant strides" under his tenure. A search for a new executive director is already underway.

Why it matters

The Job Service department plays a crucial role in overseeing unemployment programs and providing labor market data to help stabilize North Dakota's economy. Bertagnolli's retirement marks the end of an era and will require a smooth transition to new leadership.

The details

Pat Bertagnolli has served as the executive director of Job Service North Dakota, the state's workforce development agency. During his time leading the department, it has taken on important responsibilities like overseeing unemployment benefits and collecting labor market data to guide economic policy.

  • Pat Bertagnolli's retirement takes effect on June 12, 2026.

The players

Pat Bertagnolli

The outgoing executive director of Job Service North Dakota, who is retiring after leading the department for years.

Kelly Armstrong

The Governor of North Dakota, who praised Bertagnolli's leadership and announced a search for a new executive director.

Job Service North Dakota

The state's workforce development agency, responsible for overseeing unemployment programs and providing labor market data.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

A search for a new executive director to lead Job Service North Dakota is already underway.

The takeaway

Bertagnolli's retirement marks a transition for a crucial state agency that plays a key role in North Dakota's economic stability and workforce development.