BISMARCK – A former state budget director, a Glenburn resident and a Democratic-NPL legislator are finding places in governor-elect Kelly Armstrong’s Cabinet.

Armstrong on Wednesday announced a blend of new appointees and experienced leaders to help lead his administration.

Chris Schilken, Glenburn, who recently served as commissioner of the Governor’s Office of Economic Development in South Dakota, was named commissioner of the North Dakota Department of Commerce. In South Dakota, Schilken oversaw more than 200 projects and spearheaded initiatives in value-added agriculture, advanced manufacturing, infrastructure development and workforce recruitment, according to a news release from Armstrong. His leadership contributed to billions in capital investment and the creation of more than 10,000 jobs.

A graduate of Minot State University, Schilken began his economic development career as executive director of Forward Devils Lake.

“Serving the people of North Dakota in the Armstrong-Strinden Administration is an incredible honor, and serving in such an important role back here in my home state makes it even sweeter,” Schilken said. “I look forward to working with our state legislators to advance policies that benefit our communities and economy. Together, we will continue making our state a magnet for job creators and a great place to live.”

Schilken replaces Josh Teigen, who was appointed by Burgum in September 2022 after having served as the department’s director of Economic Development and Finance. Burgum’s lieutenant governor, Tammy Miller, had selected Teigen as her lieutenant governor running mate in her Republican primary bid for governor.

Rep. Corey Mock, D-Grand Forks, who did not seek reelection this fall, was named chief information officer of the North Dakota Information Technology Department.

A Minot native, Mock has more than 15 years of experience in public policy, government affairs and organizational leadership. A member of the state Legislature since 2009, he served on the Appropriations Committee and chaired the Information Technology Committee, where he helped shape policies for energy, transportation and government finance. He is also a Realtor and leadership consultant. Mock is a graduate of the University of North Dakota.

“I am honored to accept this appointment and grateful to Governor-elect Armstrong for this opportunity to serve North Dakota in a new capacity,” Mock said. “Technology plays an increasingly crucial role in delivering efficient, secure government services to our citizens. I look forward to working with the dedicated professionals at ITD to advance North Dakota’s position as a leader in digital government.”

Mock replaces Greg Hoffman, who has been a part of the organization since 2005 and has led the division since 2014.

Joe Morrissette, who had served for four years as director of the Office of Management and Budget under Gov. Doug Burgum before retiring in 2022, will return to the post.

Morrissette has nearly 30 years of experience working with the North Dakota state budget, state revenue forecast and tax policy. Previously as OMB director, he was responsible for overseeing the state’s fiscal policy. Morrissette is a certified public accountant and a graduate of the University of Mary, where he also served as a faculty member in accounting and finance.

“It is a privilege to join the Armstrong administration and help ensure North Dakota remains fiscally strong,” Morrissette said. “I look forward to working with the governor-elect and his team to deliver a budget that supports the state’s priorities while maintaining fiscal discipline.”

Morrissette replaces Susan Sisk, who held the position since June 2023.

In addition to the new appointments, Armstrong reaffirmed his commitment to retaining several Cabinet members:

– Brig. Gen. Mitchell Johnson, adjutant general of the North Dakota National Guard.

– Ron Henke, director of the Department of Transportation.

– Pat Bertagnolli, executive director of Job Service North Dakota.

– Dave Glatt, director of the Department of Environmental Quality.

– Art Thompson, director of Workforce Safety & Insurance.

– Colby Braun, director of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.

– Jeb Williams, director of the Game and Fish Department.

– Cody Schulz, director of the Parks and Recreation Department.

– Lise Kruse, commissioner of the Department of Financial Institutions.