North Dakota State College of Science is proud to announce that Benjamin “BJ” Whitmore, Associate Professor and Culinary Arts Program Coordinator, has been named the 2025 North Dakota Association for Career and Technical Education (NDACTE) Post-Secondary Educator of the Year. 

The NDACTE award honors outstanding educators who demonstrate excellence in career and technical education and go above and beyond to support student success, innovate within their field, and strengthen the broader CTE community. Whitmore was selected for his exceptional leadership, passion for teaching, and ongoing contributions to the culinary and technical education landscape in North Dakota. 

“BJ has worked tirelessly to evolve our Culinary Arts program to meet the needs of today’s students and industry,” said Dr. Rod Flanigan, NDSCS President. “In addition to serving the institution as the Faculty Senate President, he has led the development of new specialty certificates that provide more flexibility and focused training opportunities. Thanks to his vision and leadership, students can now tailor their culinary education to match their goals and passions.” 

Under Whitmore’s direction, the program has expanded hands-on learning and built strong industry partnerships, preparing students for immediate success in a high-demand field. The Culinary Arts department has developed new certificate options: Italian Cuisine, which began in Fall 2024; Baking and Pastry Arts; Catering and Banqueting; Culinary Management, starting Fall 2025; and Culinary and Food Truck Entrepreneur, starting in Fall 2026. 

His commitment to innovation and excellence continues to make a lasting impact on Culinary Arts students. Whitmore will be recognized at the 2025 ND CTE Professional Development Conference in Bismarck during a special awards ceremony on August 5 at the Bismarck Event Center.