About Us
About Me – Zeb Fortman, Expert Player & Master Teacher
Hi, I’m Zeb Fortman, and I’ve spent the last 30 years of my life doing something I love—teaching chess. I’m proud to say I’ve made a living as a professional chess player and instructor, helping students discover not only how to play the game but how to think. That’s what truly sets my teaching apart.
Early in my career, I was given the privilege of working as a teacher at the first U.S. Chess School founded by seven-time World Champion Anatoly Karpov, actually based in Lindsborg, Kansas. Working in that program during the early 2000s served to frame my vision of what it actually means to be a Chess Master. It's not merely about winning games—it's about shaping minds.
Over the years, I’ve had the honor of coaching several school teams to make them champion chess players. I led Pembroke Hill to three state titles, Mount Washington to one, and Barstow to another—five consecutive championships with three different schools. It’s been one of the most rewarding parts of my career. In 2013, I was humbled to be unanimously inducted into the Missouri Chess Hall of Fame.
But more important than the trophies is the way I teach. I believe in teaching students how to think, not what to memorize. Rapid improvement may result from memorization, but I am committed to long-term development, instilling decision-making abilities, confidence, and concentration that extend far beyond the chessboard. Whether you are new to the game or seek to polish your strategy, I enter each lesson with patience, clarity, and direction.
I've been honored to work with LINC, a community nonprofit, for more than 20 years. We've sponsored free K–12 chess tournaments throughout the school year—four times a year, with medals, trophies, no Entry Fee and free lunch for all. I also direct a week-long summer camp that allows youngsters to come together to develop their skills in a positive, friendly atmosphere.
As a Master Teacher, I've witnessed how chess develops more than just competitive skill—more character. A former student of mine matured from a reserved fourth grader into a powerful national player, partially due to what we developed together playing chess. That growth is the fuel that lights my passion every day.
Join the Fortman Legacy
Whether you're searching for a mentor to spark a child’s interest or a coach to refine advanced strategies, I stand out as a trusted guide. My commitment to teaching the mental framework behind each move is what distinguishes me from conventional instructors.
If you want someone who understands strategy and the soul of the game as well as actually cares about your progress, then it would be my honor to work with you. Let's make your chess experience worthwhile.