Governor Gianforte Honors DLI Employee for Outstanding Service

Governor's Office

KALISPELL, Mont. - Governor Greg Gianforte yesterday honored Laura Gardner of Job Service Kalispell with his Outstanding Service Award for her more than 40 years of employment with the Montana Department of Labor & Industry (DLI) and her career supporting workforce development across northwest Montana.

"For more than four decades, Laura has helped connect Montanans to opportunity and strengthen ed our workforce," Gov. Gianforte said. "Her innovative approach, deep partnerships, and commitment to serving others have made a lasting difference for businesses, families, and communities across our state."

Gov. Gianforte honoring Laura Gardner at the DLI Job Service office in Kalispell

During a visit to the Job Service Office, the governor presented Gardner with a letter of recognition outlining her career of service and a Montana state flag flown over the State Capitol in her honor. The Outstanding Service Award recognizes state employees who go above and beyond the call of duty in service to the people of Montana.

In the letter, Gov. Gianforte outlined that Gardner began her career with Job Service in 1983 and now serves as manager of the Kalispell and Libby offices. Throughout her tenure, she has led efforts to address workforce challenges and expand access to good-paying jobs. Serving as a region representative for the International Association of Workforce Professionals since 1983, she has brought national best practices to Montana, helping to strengthen workforce programs across the region.

Gardner also organizes the Northwest Montana Job and Opportunity Fairs, the largest workforce events in the region. These fairs connect hundreds of employers with job seekers and supports career opportunities for high school and college students.

Gardner also co-leads the state's Reimagining Retirement initiative, connecting workers and retirees with flexible employment and mentorship opportunities. In partnership with Flathead Valley Community College, she helped launch the Become an Alum program, reconnecting more than 1,400 former students with education and career pathways in high-demand fields.

Last year, the governor launched the 406 JOBS initiative to address Montana's workforce shortage. The plan identifies 12 priorities across the workforce system, including private and public sectors, to drive innovation, remove red tape, and foster collaboration between state agencies. Key initiatives focus on increasing Registered Apprenticeship Pathways, preparing the workforce for artificial intelligence and automation opportunities, and establishing local sector partnerships in high demand sectors.

Montanans may learn more about the award and nominate a state employee for outstanding service here.

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