Meet Bill Majewski

​Meet Bill Majewski with Golden's Chimney Lining in Princeton, Wisconsin. Bill is a long-time member of the NCSG, and he tells us why he loves being a part of the NCSG family.

What is a question you get asked most about being a chimney sweep/chimney sweeping/the industry?
People always ask if I can go inside the chimney. Then I explain to them how it all works
 
How did you get started in the industry?
An ad in the Chicago paper. They were hiring chimney sweeps through a telemarketing company.  I was a carpenter for years, and every fall it would slow down. I saw the ad in the paper to become a chimney sweep.  I was their first chimney sweep, and once I began, I never looked back.
 
What advice do you wish you had received when you were getting started?
I got that advice four months after I began sweeping.  I met Terry Dearborn, and he told me I need to get certified. So I got certified.  That was a big game changer for me.
 
What is the biggest challenge you face on the job? What are your best strategies for overcoming it?
Paperwork, paperwork and more paperwork.  I would much rather do the physical labor than paperwork.  The best strategy for overcoming this is getting the paperwork done right away and not putting it off.  If I put it off then it probably doesn't get done or it takes me forever. 
 
Who was your most famous customer?
I have two.  One is Christie Hefner, who was the CEO of Playboy, and Mike Ditka, who was the coach of the Chicago Bears.
 
Have you ever attended NCSG Annual Convention & Trade Show? If so, what was your favorite takeaway?
I have been to many chimney sweep conventions. I love most everything about the conventions.  I love the education and the trade show.  Mostly, I love seeing the others in the industry and getting to know new people while seeing those I've known and called friends for years.
 
What is your proudest accomplishment?
Marrying my wonderful wife, Tammy.
 
Have you ever had to make your own tool to solve a particular problem?
All the time! I created an adjustable grinder on a pole to cut out mortared in place flue tiles.  I also created a portable ovalizer for on the job site.  It ovalizes stainless steel liners.
 
Weirdest thing you have ever found in a chimney?
Over the years I have found 2 nail guns in a chimney.
 
What do you like to do outside of work?
I like to travel and see new things.  I also like to go to hockey games or just watch hockey.
 
What is, in your opinion, the most valuable part of being a member of the National Chimney Sweep Guild?
Being able to call other members to ask their advice.  I love the family that the NCSG is and I love being a part of that.
 
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Thank you, Bill! Meet a Member is one of our absolute favorite features – we love to highlight all of our fantastic members and the wonderful things they are doing! If you or someone you know should be featured next, please send Annemarie Stockton an email with your nomination at astockton@ncsg.org!