Governor Steve Bullock today announced that the Commissioner of the Montana Department of Labor & Industry, Galen Hollenbaugh, will retire on December 31.
“I have deeply appreciated Commissioner Hollenbaugh’s dedication to making sure we build a state where economic opportunities are available for all those who contribute to our workforce,” said Governor Bullock. “Montana is better off today because of Galen’s innovative leadership in enhancing opportunities for young Montanans and helping current workers upskill into better paying jobs.”
Commissioner Hollenbaugh was appointed to the Commissioner position in October 2017 and has since spearheaded efforts to ensure the state keeps pace with the demand for skilled workers, to strengthen public-private partnerships to address Montana’s future workforce needs, and to build on the success of programs such as the Montana Registered Apprenticeship, HELP-Link and Become an Alum.
“Serving Montanans as the Commissioner of Labor & Industry has been an honor and privilege. Supporting the workforce and the economic growth of our state has been the highlight of my career in state government,” said Hollenbaugh. “I leave with a sincere gratitude for the employees of the State of Montana, who are highly talented and dedicated. Their willingness to work tirelessly to improve our state has inspired me throughout my career.”
Previously, Commissioner Hollenbaugh served as the Deputy Commissioner for the Montana Department of Labor & Industry. Hollenbaugh has been working for the State of Montana for over 25 years and has been with Labor & Industry since 2012. In addition to his tenure with multiple state agencies, Hollenbaugh also served 4 terms in the Montana House of Representatives, representing the south central area of Helena.
Tom Lopach will serve as the interim Commissioner of the Department of Labor & Industry. Tom Lopach is a Helena native and formerly served as Governor Bullock’s Chief of Staff from August 2017 to May 2019.
