First United Bank & Trust First United Bank & Trust announced the appointment of Shawn Bender, Nina Beitzel and Steven R. Stuck to its Board of Directors. The three accomplished business leaders bring extensive experience in entrepreneurship, corporate growth, governance, economic development and community leadership, further strengthening the Board’s strategic oversight and long-term vision.
“First United’s success has always been rooted in strong leadership and a deep understanding of the communities we serve,” said Jason Rush, chairman, president and chief executive officer of First United Bank & Trust. “Shawn, Nina and Steven each bring unique perspectives, proven business expertise and a passion for growth and community development. Their experience leading complex organizations and creating opportunities will be invaluable as we continue to execute our long-term strategy and deliver value for our customers, communities, associates and shareholders.”
Shawn Bender serves as chief executive officer of Beitzel Enterprises, the parent organization of Beitzel Corporation, Pillar Innovations and Beitzel Resources. Under his leadership, the employee-owned enterprise provides civil, mechanical, electrical, fabrication, machining and 24/7 industrial support services to energy, utility and heavy industrial markets across the United States.
During more than two decades with the organization, Bender advanced from heavy equipment operator to CEO, helping transform the company into a nationally recognized industry leader. He recently oversaw the company’s transition to 100% employee ownership through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) transaction and continues to lead enterprise-wide operational and financial performance while advancing innovation and technology adoption.
Bender is also deeply involved in community and economic development initiatives, serving as president of Goodwill Retirement Community, the Tri-State Growth and Commerce Coalition and the Garrett County Development Corporation. He is also an active member of the Accident Volunteer Fire Department.
Nina Beitzel is vice president and partner of Railey Realty, part-owner and managing partner of Deep Creek Title, and president of the Garrett County Board of REALTORS®. A respected entrepreneur and consistently recognized top-producing REALTOR®, she has played a key role in the growth of multiple organizations through her expertise in sales, marketing, business development and client service.
In addition to her professional achievements, Beitzel is founder of Nina B Fitness and is actively involved with numerous local organizations. She serves as treasurer of the Accident Elementary PTO and as a board member of Northern Garrett Youth Basketball. Her leadership experience, combined with her dedication to community engagement, provides valuable insight into housing, economic development and regional growth.
Steven R. Stuck is chief executive officer and owner of Stuck Enterprises Inc., the parent company of several oil and propane businesses operating throughout Maryland and Pennsylvania. He leads a diversified energy and petroleum organization employing more than 200 associates and generating annual sales exceeding $300 million.
Over his 30-year career, Stuck has led seven corporate acquisitions and successfully expanded the company into a significant regional operation. His expertise includes mergers and acquisitions, corporate governance, strategic expansion, commercial banking, risk management, asset management and franchise and retail operations. He holds a master’s degree in public administration and has built a distinguished career focused on organizational growth, operational excellence and long-term value creation.
Stuck is also recognized for his strong commitment to community service. He serves on the boards of the Garrett Regional Medical Center Foundation, the Garrett County Chamber of Commerce, Gibraltar Captive Insurance Company and the Greene County, Pennsylvania, Industrial Development Board. He is also an active supporter of the Special Olympics of Garrett County.
“The addition of Shawn, Nina and Steven reflects First United’s commitment to building a Board with diverse experiences, strong business acumen and deep community connections,” said Brian Boal, lead director of First United Bank & Trust. “Each has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to creating long-term value. Their insights will strengthen our strategic discussions and position First United for continued success.”
The appointments reinforce First United’s commitment to supporting innovation, economic development and sustainable growth throughout the communities it serves. Together, Bender, Beitzel and Stuck bring expertise spanning large-scale business operations, technology, entrepreneurship, real estate, acquisitions, workforce development and regional economic advancement, helping guide the organization as it continues to serve customers and communities across its footprint.
Member of FDIC. First United Corporation operates First United Bank & Trust, a full-service community bank serving Maryland and West Virginia through a network of community offices in Garrett, Allegany, Washington and Frederick counties in Maryland, and Mineral, Berkeley and Monongalia counties in West Virginia. As of June 30, 2026, the corporation reported assets of approximately $2.1 billion.