Picture a Georgia farm boy who soared from plowing fields to steering one of America’s biggest airlines—meet Robert W. Coggin! His memoir, Flying High Over the Cotton Field, captures a life of grit, innovation, and heart, blending rural roots with corporate triumphs. Coggin’s story isn’t just about aviation; it’s about defying odds and giving back.
Born in a small mill village in Georgia, Coggin’s journey from farm life to Delta Air Lines executive is a testament to hard work and opportunity. His 42-year career at Delta and his post-retirement philanthropy make him a unique figure, inspiring readers with his down-to-earth charm and relentless drive.
The Making of Robert W. Coggin
Raised in Sargent, Georgia, Robert W. Coggin spent his early years picking cotton and plowing behind a mule. Life on the family farm taught him perseverance, a trait that would define his career. After enlisting in the U.S. Air Force, he gained skills in classified communications, giving him an edge when he joined Delta Air Lines in 1956 as a 'ramp rat.' Inspired by Delta’s founder, C.E. Woolman, Coggin embraced the company’s culture of rewarding dedication, setting the stage for his remarkable ascent.
Robert W. Coggin’s Unforgettable Story
Coggin’s memoir, Flying High Over the Cotton Field, published in 2018, is his literary cornerstone. Spanning his childhood in rural Georgia to his retirement as Delta’s Executive Vice President in 1998, the book weaves personal anecdotes with insights into the airline industry’s evolution. Edited by local writers Angela McRae and Deberah Williams, with cover art by David Boyd Sr., it’s a heartfelt narrative that resonates with readers seeking stories of ambition and resilience.
His writing style is straightforward yet engaging, reflecting his no-nonsense personality. Themes of hard work, adaptability, and community shine through, mirroring his career innovations—like building an IT department within Delta’s planning division in 1979. Coggin’s ability to negotiate major deals, such as making Delta the official airline for Disney World and Disneyland, adds a layer of corporate intrigue to his storytelling, making his memoir a blend of personal triumph and industry history.
Why Robert W. Coggin Matters
Robert W. Coggin’s impact extends beyond aviation. His memoir inspires young readers to pursue their dreams, no matter their origins, emphasizing that diligence can lead to extraordinary opportunities. At Delta, he modernized operations and fostered partnerships that shaped the airline’s global presence. Post-retirement, Coggin’s philanthropy, including his long service on the Newnan City Council and support for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Newnan, underscores his commitment to community. His story reminds us that success is not just about climbing ladders but also lifting others along the way.
- Born: Sargent, Georgia
- Key Work: Flying High Over the Cotton Field (2018)
- Career Highlight: Executive Vice President at Delta Air Lines (retired 1998)
- Philanthropy: Active in Newnan’s Boys & Girls Clubs and community boards
Ready to be inspired? Grab Flying High Over the Cotton Field and dive into Robert W. Coggin’s incredible journey from farm to flight!