Strong relationships between unions and signatory contractors are the foundation of a thriving industry. When contractors and labor work together, the result is safer jobsites, stronger training, and better long-term opportunities for everyone.
In Colorado, the pioneering partnership between Midtown Chimney Sweeps and SMART Local 9 shows what real collaboration can achieve. This partnership opens new doors for unions, employers, workers, and the entire industry. Maintenance of metal chimney flues and end caps in Colorado will now be performed by Local 9 members.
“As the owner of the first chimney and fireplace company in the United States to join a national sheet metal workers union, I am proud to share my experience with Local 9,” said Byron Schramm, owner of Midtown Chimney Sweeps. “The partnership has transformed my business.”
A Contractor Looking for a Better Path
In July 2025, Schramm visited the Local 9 union hall. He was searching for solutions to a common problem in the trades.
Like many contractors, he struggled to find qualified workers. He needed people with strong training, professionalism, and long-term commitment.
Schramm’s desire to raise industry standards started years earlier. He spent seven months touring Europe. There, he saw exceptional craftsmanship among German, Swiss, and Austrian chimney professionals.
Their precision, skill, and dedication inspired him. He returned home determined to bring those high standards to the United States.
However, he faced serious challenges. He hired inexperienced workers and invested heavily in training them. Many left after a short time to start their own businesses. This constant turnover hurt service quality and made growth nearly impossible.
The SMART Union Advantage
Schramm first spoke with another union. Their program did not fit his needs. He was then encouraged to contact SMART Local 9 and reached out to organizer Chaz Tedesco.
The connection made sense. Much of his work involves metal flues and end caps.
Tedesco and Business Agent Lon Comstock welcomed him to the union hall. They gave him a full tour and explained SMART’s training programs in detail. The conversations quickly moved beyond hiring to the many benefits of becoming a signatory contractor.
Schramm and his team returned for more meetings. They met Andy Gilliland, State Director of the Colorado Sheet Metal Workers JATC, and Reed Ausmus, Denver training coordinator.
A Historic Agreement
Because chimney and fireplace work had never been covered under a SMART Local 9 agreement before, both sides had to build the contract from the ground up.
On September 23, 2025, Midtown Chimney Sweeps signed a collective bargaining agreement with SMART Local 9. The contract took effect on October 1, 2025. All existing employees joined the union and completed orientation. Schramm also joined as an owner-member.
The Value of Union Skill and Professionalism
The difference in workforce quality was clear right away.
“The journeymen from Local 9 showed a level of professionalism and expertise I rarely see,” said Schramm.
He shared one example. While installing a fresh air kit, journeyman Eric asked for the exact pipe dimensions before cutting the hole. He refused to do “size on size.” They used a 4.5-inch hole saw for a 4.25-inch pipe. The result was a perfect, safe fit.
Later that day, Eric used a spoon to apply silicone sealant on roof flashing. He created a smooth, professional seal.
Growing the Partnership
Midtown now pays full journeyperson rates. Schramm is also considering adding a foreman position so he can focus on growing the business and franchise system.
This partnership creates new opportunities for Local 9 members. It expands the apprenticeship program with new curriculum, hands-on equipment, and international collaboration with Germany’s chimney training system.
A Bright Future
Jon Alvino, Local 9 Business Manager, called the agreement a groundbreaking moment for SMART Local 9.
“This is exactly what teamwork looks like,” Alvino said. “We are excited about the strong future we will build together with Midtown.”
Schramm believes the partnership is a game-changer.
“Joining the union has stabilized my workforce and reignited my passion for the trade,” he said. “I encourage other business owners to consider this path. It is a game-changer for building a stronger, more resilient industry.”
To read the full article SMART makes the difference in a traditional trade: Midtown Chimney Sweeps joins Local 9 to expand opportunity click the link!
