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Carpenter Turns VP of Commercial Lending at First United Bank

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  Published in Business and Finance on Saturday, December 6th 2025 at 0:26 GMT by Berkshire Eagle

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North Adams Carpenter Joins Bank as Vice‑President of Commercial Lending

A familiar face in North Adams’ skilled‑trade community has entered the banking sector, bringing hands‑on construction experience to a leadership role at a regional bank. The story, chronicled in the Berkshire Eagle, follows the career pivot of former carpenter David “Dave” R. Klein—a 22‑year veteran of the local construction scene—who was recently appointed Vice‑President (VP) of Commercial Lending at First United Bank of the Berkshires.

From Hammer to Ledger: The Journey of Dave Klein

Klein’s story is rooted in North Adams’ long‑standing manufacturing tradition. He began his career at the age of 18, apprenticing in a family‑owned carpentry firm that specialized in custom cabinetry and renovation work. Over two decades, he climbed the ranks, managing large residential projects, supervising crews, and ultimately becoming a senior project manager. In the process, he cultivated a deep understanding of the financial demands of the construction industry, from material budgeting to cash‑flow forecasting.

“Building houses and projects is as much about managing money as it is about wood and nails,” Klein told the Berkshire Eagle in an interview. “I’ve always kept a close eye on the numbers—how much the client can afford, when payments will come in, and when I need to line up financing for equipment. That skill set is highly transferable to commercial lending.”

The decision to transition into banking came after Klein met a group of local entrepreneurs at a community development event. “They were discussing the difficulty of securing financing for small‑to‑medium businesses,” he explained. “I realized that many of those challenges were the same ones I’d tackled as a contractor. So I thought, why not help them on a larger scale?”

First United Bank’s Vision for Commercial Lending

First United Bank, headquartered in Pittsfield and serving communities across the Berkshire region, has been expanding its commercial lending division to support local businesses that often struggle to find traditional financing. The bank’s mission, as outlined on its website, is “to be the trusted financial partner that empowers our customers to achieve growth and success.” Klein’s appointment aligns with this vision by adding hands‑on industry experience to the team.

In his new role, Klein will oversee a portfolio of commercial loans ranging from $200,000 to $10 million, focusing on small‑to‑medium enterprises (SMEs) in construction, retail, and hospitality. He will be responsible for:

• Underwriting and risk assessment for new loan applications.
• Developing customized financing solutions that match each client’s growth strategy.
• Building relationships with local business owners, chambers of commerce, and economic development agencies.

“Commercial lending is not just about credit; it’s about building partnerships,” said Lisa M. Harrison, the bank’s Chief Lending Officer. “Dave brings a real‑world perspective that will help us better understand our clients’ needs.”

Impact on the North Adams Economy

North Adams’ economy has historically been anchored by manufacturing, but recent years have seen a shift toward services, tech, and hospitality. The city’s population of roughly 14,000 has been stable, yet the demand for new commercial real estate and renovations has increased, especially with the rise of boutique hotels and craft‑based businesses.

Klein’s expertise will be particularly valuable in supporting projects like:

• The renovation of the historic North Adams Theatre into a mixed‑use cultural hub.
• Expansion of local craft breweries, which have become a significant draw for tourists.
• Development of a small‑business incubator, aimed at fostering entrepreneurship among the city’s younger residents.

By offering tailored financing options, the bank hopes to accelerate these projects and, in turn, create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

A Synergy of Skills and Community Roots

Klein’s move to First United Bank is more than a career change; it’s a strategic alignment of his construction know‑how with the bank’s commercial lending objectives. The synergy is evident in several key areas:

1. Client‑Centric Approach: Having worked directly with homeowners and contractors, Klein understands the nuances of project financing, enabling him to craft loan structures that accommodate cash‑flow cycles.
2. Risk Mitigation: His experience with material cost overruns and scheduling delays equips him to assess risk proactively and mitigate potential losses.
3. Local Insight: As a North Adams native, Klein brings invaluable local knowledge, helping the bank navigate regional market trends and regulatory nuances.

“Dave’s story underscores the importance of community expertise in finance,” Harrison noted. “He’s not just a banker; he’s a neighbor, a friend, and a trusted professional in our area.”

Looking Ahead

With his appointment, First United Bank signals a commitment to deepen its ties to North Adams and the broader Berkshires region. The bank plans to launch a series of community forums and workshops, led by Klein, to educate local business owners on financing options and best practices for capital planning.

Klein himself is enthusiastic about the prospect of giving back to his community in a new capacity. “It’s a privilege to help people turn their business dreams into reality,” he said. “I’m looking forward to collaborating with entrepreneurs, developers, and city officials to make North Adams an even more vibrant place.”

Conclusion

Dave Klein’s transition from carpenter to VP of Commercial Lending at First United Bank exemplifies how practical industry experience can enrich financial services, especially in regional markets. His appointment not only broadens the bank’s lending capabilities but also strengthens the economic fabric of North Adams, providing critical support to small‑to‑medium enterprises that are essential to the city’s continued growth and resilience.