Meet Our Experts
These courses were developed in collaboration with experienced industry professionals.
Our subject-matter experts bring real-world knowledge from the field into every lesson.
Jonathan Erdman
Education Director, National Chimney Sweep Guild
Jonathan Erdman serves as Education Director for the National Chimney Sweep Guild and brings six years of specialized experience in the chimney and venting industry to this course. As an OSHA Authorized Trainer, Jonathan focuses on roof safety, a critical foundation for every chimney service professional. He currently works with Rooftop Safety USA and is an active member of both the NCSG and the Mid-Atlantic Chimney Association.
Before entering the chimney industry, Jonathan spent 14 years in operations and logistics at Walmart, where he developed a strong commitment to safety systems, training, and continuous improvement. That experience shaped his approach to professional development in the trades: he believes in taking initiative and seeking out knowledge rather than waiting for it to come to you.
Jonathan's core advice to new sweeps reflects his teaching philosophy: "Don't wait for someone to fill in the gaps for you. Take the initiative to learn and grow as much as you can." This course represents that commitment, giving you the tools and knowledge to build a safer, more successful career in the chimney service industry.
Bob Ferrari
Educator and Consultant
Bob Ferrari brings four decades of experience in the chimney and venting industry to this course. His technical expertise spans chimney physics, business operations, roof safety and fall protection, and all fuel types including gas, pellet, and factory-built systems. Over the course of his career, Bob has held virtually every major industry certification, including FIRE, NFI (Wood, Gas, Pellet), BPI, and carbon monoxide specialist credentials.
Bob's commitment to industry education runs deep. He served eight years on the NCSG Board of Directors, including time as NCSG Director of Education, and contributed to CSIA ethics and instructor review committees. Now working as an independent educator and consultant, Bob continues to share his extensive knowledge with professionals across the industry.
His advice to new sweeps is straightforward: "Go to conferences." Professional development and networking are essential to growth in this field. Bob's teaching style reflects his decades of real-world experience and his belief that staying connected to the broader industry community makes better professionals.
Zigi Gadomski
WETT Master Sweep
Zigi Gadomski has spent 40 years working across every aspect of the chimney and venting trade. As owner of Chim-Tech, his expertise covers the full spectrum: gas fitting, sweeping, installation, and instruction. He holds the highest credentials in the WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) system as a Master Sweep, Master Installer, and Master Instructor, along with F.I.R.E. certification for fireplace and chimney inspection.
Zigi's leadership extends throughout the industry. He currently serves as President of WETBC, sits on the WETTinc board, and chairs the WETT Education Committee. He also contributes his expertise as a member of the NCSG Education Committee, helping shape training standards across North America.
When asked about his most important advice for new sweeps, Zigi keeps it simple: "Preparation" in both knowledge and equipment. His four decades of experience have taught him that success in this trade comes from being ready for whatever you encounter on the job. That philosophy of thorough preparation guides everything he teaches.
Cory McGill
President and Owner, DoneRight Chimney Inc.
Cory McGill brings 28 years of experience to the chimney industry, leading DoneRight Chimney Inc. with a focus on sweeps, inspections, and masonry repair. His personal specialty lies in historic masonry restoration and commercial vent systems, while his company focuses on sweeps, inspections, and masonry repair. This work requires both technical precision and a deep understanding of traditional building methods. He holds credentials as an Accredited Certified Chimney Journeyman, Master Chimney Professional, and F.I.R.E. Certified Inspector.
As a member of the NCSG Education Committee, Cory helps shape the training standards that guide professionals throughout the industry. His quarter-century of hands-on experience informs his approach to education and mentorship.
Cory’s advice to new sweeps reflects the serious responsibility of this trade: “You’re working with fire in people’s homes. Lead with honesty and integrity, because shortcuts don’t just cut time, they endanger lives.” This commitment to safety and ethical practice drives both his company’s operations and his contributions to industry education.
Gary Smalling
President, Smalling Masonry
Gary Smalling has built Smalling Masonry into a respected company specializing in the restoration and replacement of wood burning and gas burning fireplace and chimney systems. With 15 years in the trade, Gary holds multiple industry certifications including NCSG Journeyman, NFI credentials in wood and gas, Hearth Design Specialist, and FIRE certification.
Gary's dedication to advancing the profession is evident in his leadership roles. He currently serves on the NCSG Board of Directors as Chair of the Education Committee, directly shaping the training and standards that guide professionals across the country. He also serves as the NCSG liaison on the HPBEF (Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Education Foundation) board, connecting the chimney industry with broader hearth industry initiatives.
His message to new sweeps carries the weight of responsibility: "Don't take short cuts. You are putting fire in people's homes." This principle guides both his company's work and his approach to education. Safety and quality aren't optional in this trade, and Gary's teaching reflects that unwavering standard.