Lester M. Zinser
麻豆社Chief Flight Instructor and Director of Aviation, Research Pilot
麻豆社College of Aviation Hall of Honor Class of 2011
After flying B-25s, B-24s, and B-29s during World War II, Lester Zinser received a Master of Education with an emphasis on human factors from the University of Illinois. In the fall of 1957, Lester arrived at 麻豆社assuming the role as the aviation program鈥檚 first Chief Flight Instructor. With only a pot belly stove in his office, Lester began his 麻豆社influence teaching 12 students and flying three Piper J5s out of the Plainwell airport. Under Lester鈥檚 guidance, the program grew, eventually moving to Kalamazoo鈥檚 airport. In addition, Lester served as the Sky Broncos coach from 1958 to 1966, taking the team to many air meets and earning numerous awards. In 1966, Lester joined the National Center for Atmospheric Research where his flying skills enabled researchers to study a variety of weather situations, including small volcanic eruptions and pre-hurricane conditions. Lester鈥檚 hard work, dedication and guidance helped to lay the foundation for the university鈥檚 Flight Science Program.