Robert W. Coggin's Journey From Poverty To Executive To Be Featured At LA Times Book Festival
In an inspiring journey from humble beginnings to the heights of the airline industry, Robert W. Coggin's memoir, "Flying High Over the Cotton Field," is set to captivate attendees at the 2024 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books. This event, hosted at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles on April 20-21, 2024, is renowned as the largest book festival in the United States, attracting approximately 150,000 visitors each year. The festival celebrates literature, culture, and arts, featuring a diverse array of authors, book lovers, exhibitors, celebrities, artists, and musicians.
"Flying High Over the Cotton Field" chronicles Coggin's remarkable life journey. From his early days working in agriculture to his ascent within Delta Air Lines, Coggin's story is a testament to determination and hard work. His military service in the U.S. Air Force played a pivotal role in launching his career in aviation, eventually leading him to become one of Delta's top executives. The memoir not only shares Coggin's personal and professional milestones but also aims to inspire readers who may feel trapped by their circumstances.

ReadersMagnet, a self-publishing and book marketing company, will showcase Coggin's memoir at booth #225 during the festival. For those interested in exploring Coggin's life story and gaining insights into his success, "Flying High Over the Cotton Field" is available for purchase on Amazon.
Robert W. Coggin's early life was rooted in the Sargent and Handy communities of Georgia. He pursued his education at Western High School and Alabama Christian College before completing the Executive MBA Program at Kellogg Business School. His career with Delta Airlines spanned over four decades, beginning in April 1956 as a Ramp Service Agent. Upon retiring in May 1998, Coggin held the position of Executive Vice President of Sales, Marketing, Planning, and Technology, where he played a crucial role in Delta's international expansion and partnerships.
Following his tenure at Delta, Coggin established a successful Travel & Transportation Consulting practice. His consultancy work included notable clients such as Priceline.com. After a stint in consulting post-9/11, he joined the Travel Distribution Division of Cendant, which later became Travelport. Coggin retired from Travelport in September 2011 but remained active within the community through various board memberships including the University of West Georgia Newnan Advisory Board and the Boys and Girls Club.
The Los Angeles Times Festival of Books offers a platform for stories like Coggin's to be shared and celebrated among a wide audience. His narrative not only highlights the possibilities within the airline industry but also serves as an encouragement for anyone striving to overcome obstacles and achieve their dreams.