Festus R-VI Hall of Fame Inductees - Byron Wesley Sherman, Ph.D
Byron Wesley “Wes” Sherman was born on September 20, 1935. Wes graduated from Festus High School in 1953. Following graduation, Wes attended the University of Missouri where he received his Bachelor, Master and Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering. Wes served in the United States Air Force from 1959-1962 where he designed the Control Systems for Performance Testing of Large Rocket Engines and Telemetry Range Development for High Performance Aircraft and Spacecraft. Following his duty in the Air Force he worked for McDonnell Aircraft and was responsible for Design and Development of Telemetry Simulation System, Gemini Program. In addition, served as a consultant to the National Aeronautical and Space Association (NASA) during the Apollo program and tracked John Glenn on his journey to the moon. Mr. Sherman’s name is inscribed in the ‘Spacewalk of Honor’ at John F. Kennedy Space Center for his support and work in the American Space Program.
Mr. Sherman taught as a Professor of Electrical Engineering at the University of Missouri. Appointments Mr. Sherman received from the University are Professor Emeritus of Electrical Engineering and Professor of Electrical Engineering.
Wes is also a nationally recognized expert in the investigation and cause of crimes relating to arson and has investigated approximately 3000 cases. Through this association with arson, Wes has served on many task forces in cooperation with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), the U.S. Attorney’s office and other State and Federal agencies. Wes has given lectures, wrote conference papers and published articles in national and international journals. Wes assisted the Iowa Fire Marshall by teaching at their fire school within their law enforcement academy. Using scientific evidence, Mr. Sherman has used his investigative skills to exonerate and/or convict individuals charged with crimes relating to arson.
Wes has served as a consultant for Wells Engineering, Columbia Pictures Corporation, Audience Studies, Inc., Lockheed Electronics Company, NASA Manned Spacecraft Center and other small businesses. Wes also works with communities in implementing Emergency Response Teams.
Wes participates in many organizations including primary memberships with the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI). He has received honors and awards from the American Men of Science, National Science Foundation, ASEE-NASA Faculty Fellowship, Sigma XI, Tau Beta PI and Eta Kappa Nu.
In his spare time, Wes enjoys tinkering with electronics, being a HAM amateur radio operator and teaches radio classes. He is a member of two bands: Community Concert and Show-Me Brass. In addition he is an active member of the Latter Day Saints Church where he has filled in as clergy; worked with youth and served as local bishop. Wes also enjoys reading physics books.
Mr. Sherman has been married to his wife Dottie for 56 years and together they have four children, all of whom are engineers. Wes and Dottie also have 12 grandchildren.