Priddy Chimney Solutions

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Priddy Chimney Solutions is a full-service, family-owned and female-led chimney and fireplace company. Under the ownership of Seth Balsam, Priddy has distinguished itself as a leader in promoting women’s advancement within the traditionally male-dominated trades industry.

Since the business changed hands in 2018, Priddy has cultivated a culture centered on recognizing talent and potential rather than industry expectations or traditional hierarchies. The company’s commitment to women became evident when new leadership recognized the capabilities of a part-time employee who has since advanced to Vice President. This approach reflects Priddy’s philosophy of identifying talent and providing growth opportunities without formal quotas or structured programs. These efforts have produced measurable results. Today, women hold every key leadership and strategic position at Priddy, including the most senior finance, HR and marketing roles.

The company’s mentorship framework combines internal coaching with external resources, leveraging senior leadership to help team members gain clarity on goals and build confidence. Priddy offers comprehensive training on natural stone installation, gas fireplace technology, CSIA certifications and evolving industry codes. Employees receive compensation for both training time and study periods, with sessions open to all departments rather than limited to field technicians.

Priddy’s hiring and promotion practices emphasize performance over assumptions, creating an environment where women advance to leadership roles through experience and demonstrated capability. Both Vice Presidents are women who developed their expertise within the organization, leading operations and sales respectively.

The company extends its commitment to equality through community initiatives. Priddy supports local schools through programs like “Fill the Chimney,” which challenges students to raise donations for under-resourced schools while the company provides matching contributions. Balsam served on the fundraising committee for Howard Community College’s Workforce Development & Trades Center, contributing time and financial support to expand trades education access for women and minorities.

Looking ahead, Priddy plans to expand training access for women and underrepresented team members while developing more structured mentorship programs.

Honoree profiles were written using an artificial intelligence program and supported by honoree nominations, applications and letters of recommendation. Each profile was reviewed, fact-checked and edited for accuracy by The Daily Record’s editorial staff.