NCSG Potential Member Guide

I WANT YOU AS AN NCSG MEMBER

MEMBERSHIP GUIDE

ABOUT Founded in 1977, the National Chimney Sweep Guild has a rich history of American sweeps.

NCSG is a 501(c)(6) non-profit trade association that promotes the success of chimney and venting businesses. Our members benefit from industry-leading education, events and advocacy initiatives.

Members in each of NCSG’s six regions elect board members to represent their geographical region. In addition to regional directors, the membership elects two At-Large Directors from among its voting members and one Supplier Representative from among its Supplier members. Additionally, two At-Large Directors are nominated by the Governance Committee and confirmed by the board.

MISSION The National Chimney Sweep Guild (NCSG) is a community of professionals that promotes safety, education, business development, and advocacy for the chimney and venting industry.

VISION NCSG is the leading resource for the chimney and venting industry.

EDUCATION Certified Chimney Professional NCSG maintains the premier education and certification programs in the chimney and venting industry. Currently being accredited by the American National Standards Institute, NCSG certification holders represent the highest standard of chimney professionals.

Certified Chimney Professional: Early Career; Foundational Knowledge of the Chimney Trade.

Certified Chimney Reliner: Early Career; Comprehensive Chimney Relining — Only Reliner Certification in U.S. Certified Chimney Journeyman: Advanced Career; Advanced Technical Knowledge for Team Leaders in the Field.

NCSG Hands-On-Training Events held across the country hosted and/or sponsored by local NCSG Regions, members, or suppliers gives members the opportunity to receive first hand training on the spot. Check out the Events calendar on NCSG.org, Facebook or the latest issue of Sweeping to find the next H.O.T. Event.

CVC Success Group Monthly Webinars and Virtual Academy The CVC Virtual Academy contains a large selection of training courses with many accredited for CEUs and allow the user to keep their certifications valid and renewed with an online source. The service is provided through a subscription based service, or individual course purchases can be made.

Spark Marketer Monthly Webinars Spark Marketer is a full service, customer-centric digital marketing company that helps NCSG members grow and manage their online presence. They’re here with you every step of the way as you build the business of your dreams. Join them each month for a webinar on a new social media or web marketing topic.

EVENTS NCSG National Convention

Government Affairs

Attend valuable business building seminars at NCSG’s annual convention. Talk with industry suppliers and see new products and services at the trade show to help solve your customers’ problems and grow your business. Almost any sweep that has attended will tell you that they leave the convention with at least one idea or bit of knowledge that will either make or save you thousands of dollars a year.

NCSG closely monitors federal, state and local government to identify policy that could affect chimney and venting professionals. In close collaboration with key stakeholders like the Hearth, Patio, and Barbecue Association (HPBA) and state and regional chimney sweeping associations, the Advocacy Committee advances and protects the long-term interests of the Guild. 5% of your yearly dues are set aside in an Advocacy Fund to respond to legislative issues on a state and national level. To get involved with NCSG advocacy initiatives contact office@ncsg.org.

NCSG Chimney Expo Discover what is available for you and your technicians by visiting 70+ booths of fantastic chimney suppliers that are eager to answer your questions and show you what is new in the world of chimneys, chimney sweeping and chimney relining!

This event is designed for the chimney sweep, your technicians and staff to be able to attend!

TECHNICAL EXPERTISE

TAC LINE

ADVOCACY

Technical Assistance Phone Line Put a team of expert technical consultants in the palm of your hand with NCSG’s Technical Advisory Council (TAC). As a member of the NCSG you have access to our entire member advisory council. From questions on codes to installation and everything in between, there’s someone with guidance on almost any issue.

NCSG Manual Library NCSG members receive access to the NCSG Manual Library. This application gives you access to over 800 rare and hard to find wood stove, gas log, and factory built fireplace manuals. The Manual Library is optimized to work on both smartphones and tablets, making it convenient for working in the field.

Codes & Standards NCSG actively participates and monitors code and standard bodies, such as the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Occupational Safety and Health Administration. Through education and engagement, the Guild is able to protect a positive work environment for the chimney trade.

NFPA Representation The NCSG looks out for your interests by sending representatives to National Fire Protection Agency.

• NFPA 211 — Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents, and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances • NFPA 31 — Standard for the Installation of Oil-Burning Equipment • NFPA 54 — National Fuel Gas Code

Other Representation • Occupational Safety and Health Act — Fall Protection • Environmental Protection Agency • International Residential Code • International Code Council

International Representation NCSG is a member of the European Federation of Chimney Sweeps (ESCHFOE), the Chimney Sweeps Association of Ireland (CSAI) and participates in the Great American Woodstove Changeout. The Guild’s international initiatives bring education, technology and relationships from sweeps around the world.

NETWORKING

NCSG Facebook Discussion Group

This member only Facebook group is a forum for peer networking, technical resolution, sweep-to-sweep referrals, and more. The NCSG Discussion List Facebook group is exclusive to NCSG members and free, but worth a ton more!

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Discounts on things like insurance, travel, hotels, business services

Mentor Program

Whether you are new to the industry or just looking for some extra advice, NCSG is here to help you gain the knowledge you need to increase your success. Our mentor program is aimed at connecting long-time, experienced chimney professionals with individuals who are seeking additional information and guidance. This program is just another way you can elevate your business, learn some tips and tricks, and connect to the larger chimney community.

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Free subscription to Sweeping magazine and eNews e-mail blast

Become an NCSG Member • • • • • •

Connect with your NCSG Regional Director Connect with NCSG Members in your Area Learn about NCSG Certification Programs Attend NCSG Convention and Chimney Expo Read Sweeping Magazine Join the NCSG Discussion List on Facebook

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Access to NCSG swag ....and more!

SIGN UP AT NCSG.ORG

Join a Committee or Volunteer

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Volunteer at NCSG Convention or Expo Join the Membership Committee – help plan benefits, Sweeping Magazine and member events Join the Advocacy Committee — help NCSG grassroots efforts and protect our industry Join the Events Committee — help plan the NCSG Convention and Chimney Expo Join the Education Committee — help educate sweeps through programs and hands-on training

Run for the NCSG Board of Directors • • •

Be a leader of the National Chimney Sweep Guild Represent sweeps in your region on the Board Serve as a chair or vice-chair of an NCSG Committee

Become an Officer of the NCSG Board of Directors • •

Eligible after serving at least 1 year on the NCSG Board Vice-President, Secretary and Treasurer terms are elected annually for a max of 3 consecutive 1-year terms

Serve as President Lead Your Guild!

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Eligible after serving at least 1 year as an NCSG Officer President is elected annually for a max of 3 consecutive 1-year terms