About Us
CharterWest Bank History
1983 — Founded on Community Values
In 1983, as the agricultural economy faced challenging times, West Point auto dealers Steve and Hugh Paus saw an opportunity to create a bank that put people first. With a strong belief in the local community and economy, they began laying the groundwork for what would become CharterWest.
1985 — A Bank is Born
In 1985, CharterWest National Bank officially opened its doors, backed by local investors and a vision to serve customers with integrity, consistency, and a positive lending attitude. That customer-first philosophy still guides us today.
1991-2000 — Growing with Purpose
In 1991, the bank acquired deposits from Equitable Federal Savings & Loan, fueling further loan growth. In 1999, CharterWest expanded into Walthill—our first out-of-town location—followed by a new branch in Pender in 2000. Each new community helped us sharpen our approach to small-town, customer-focused banking.
2004-2005 — Entering the Metro & Mortgage Markets
We expanded into Elkhorn in 2004, establishing our presence in the Omaha metro while keeping our small-town roots. That same year, we crossed $100 million in assets. In 2005, CharterWest purchased the Nebraska operations of Major Mortgage, launching what would become one of the state’s leading residential mortgage teams.
2013-2015 — A Name for the Future
We added a combined bank and mortgage location in Papillion in 2013. By 2015, to better align with our mission, we transitioned from a national to a state-regulated bank and officially became CharterWest Bank.
2018-2025 — Momentum in Motion
Our mortgage division expanded across Nebraska and into Iowa, with new locations in McCook, Lincoln, South Omaha, Council Bluffs, Norfolk, Sioux City, Gretna, Kearney, and La Vista. In 2022, we introduced CharterLive Interactive Teller Machines to serve customers more flexibly.
In 2025, we opened our newest full-service location in South Omaha, further reinforcing our commitment to serve diverse, growing communities.
Celebrating 40 Years
2025 marks 40 years since CharterWest first opened its doors—and 25 years since our Pender branch was founded. From a single office in West Point to dozens of locations across Nebraska and Iowa, our mission remains the same: deliver great banking experiences rooted in trust, service, and community.
Big enough to meet your needs. Small enough to know your name.
At CharterWest, we have the strength and resources to meet a wide range of financial needs—but we haven’t lost the personal touch. When you call us, you speak to a real person at the location you’re calling—someone who knows your name, your business, and your community. It’s that commitment to local service and real relationships that sets us apart.