WILLISTON, N.D. - Williston State College is pleased to announce that Patrick Hatlestad has been hired as director of the Career and Technical Education Center. He began his duties on May 13.
"Initially it's been a bit overwhelming," Hatlestad said. "There's a lot of information I need to acquire and then it will be easier."
His career path has prepared him well for his new role. He served as a high school instructor, a high school administrator, office manager of Williston's Job Service ND office, and is currently serving his second term as a representative in the North Dakota Legislature.
"I have been hired to run the career and technical education center and all CTE programs," he said. "There are five initial programs which I'll work to develop, and then develop additional programs as needed, especially by the high schools. There are 14 to 16 high schools involved with the REA with which we work closely to give them as many curriculum options as possible."
The five initial programs to be established are welding, building trade, electronics/computers, health careers and auto mechanics.
"A lot of things are going to happen," he said. "The opening of the CTE center is a great opportunity for western North Dakota. Anyone coming out of this program will be grabbed up for employment. If your focus is hands-on learning, the new CTE center is a great opportunity for you."
Hatlestad is also responsible for supervising the dual credit program set up between the college and area high schools.
"We will actively promote the dual credit program and what Williston State has to offer," he said. "Here's a great opportunity for students in outlying areas as well as Williston High School to get their feet wet as to what college is like. It gives the high school students an opportunity to steal second base while keeping their foot on first base."
"Representative Hatlestad brings experience and leadership that is critical in our making the partnership between the school districts and the college a success," said WSC President Raymond Nadolny.
Hatlestad is a native of Northwood, and moved to Williston in 1951 with his parents. He and his wife, Durelle, have two daughters. In his free time, he enjoys reading and sports, especially golf.