Sidney Adams Jr.
Battle Creek Community and Aviation Advocate, WMU Adjunct Assistant Professor
WMU College of Aviation Hall of Honor Class of 2012
Born in rural Mississippi, Sid Adams propelled his life from humble beginnings to earn a degree from Alcorn State University, serve in the US Army and dedicate 29 years with the Veterans Administration. The youngest of 11 children, Sid’s love of aviation took off during his tenure as an 82nd Airborne paratrooper. Eventually earning his private pilot license and becoming an aircraft owner himself (Cessna Cardinal N13282), Sid became determined to pass on his passion of aviation to the next generation, specifically traditionally under-represented groups. In addition to his career with the VA, Sid became intimately involved in numerous city and national organizations: the NAACP, the Organization of Black Airline Pilots, Battle Creek Unlimited, the Battle Creek Tax Increment Finance Authority, WMU’s College of Aviation Advisory Board, the Michigan Aeronautics Commission, and numerous others. Parlaying his talents and passion, Sid took part in the committee to help establish the College of Aviation at its permanent home in Battle Creek, MI. Furthermore Sid helped to establish the Battle Creek Flight Academy, with the mission of introducing aviation careers and opportunities to women and minorities.