Delta TechOps Retiree Creates Endowment to Support A&P Students
After losing his mother, Delta retiree Kevin Cowart sought a meaningful way to honour her legacy while also supporting the next generation of aviation maintenance professionals. In her memory, he established the Kevin Howell Cowart Aviation Maintenance Career Endowment, which provides financial assistance to students enrolled in Middle Georgia State University’s (MGA) Airframe & Powerplant (A&P) program.
Using his inheritance, Cowart funded the endowment to help students pursue FAA-certified A&P training. The scholarship supports individuals who demonstrate dedication, leadership potential, and a genuine interest in aviation maintenance. Through this initiative, Cowart aims to reduce financial barriers and help develop skilled maintenance technicians.
“I wanted to make a difference now — while I can see the impact,” said Cowart.
“Supporting education strengthens the aviation community we all depend on.”
With more than 32 years of experience in aviation maintenance, including 28 years in global assignments and leadership roles at Delta TechOps, Cowart understands the importance of skilled professionals in the industry. His career began as an avionics technician in the U.S. Marine Corps, and he later earned his A&P certification while working at Delta TechOps.
“I plan to donate a percentage of my estate to grow this endowment and ensure its long-term impact,” Cowart added.
“Seeing students launch their careers and knowing this supports the workforce is rewarding.”
Why Middle Georgia State University
MGA is a long-term partner of Delta TechOps and recognized for preparing aviation maintenance professionals. Delta TechOps leaders collaborated with Cowart to identify MGA as a partner for the endowment, noting its curriculum and focus on workforce development in Georgia’s aviation sector.
Cowart acknowledged Delta colleagues and MGA leaders Adon Clark, Martin Kehayes, and Barbara Gibbons for their contributions to establishing the endowment.
Endowment Details
Initial Gift: $25,000 in stock transferred to the MGA Foundation
Scholarship Focus: Students in A&P courses
Selection Criteria: Academic performance, financial need, and commitment to aviation maintenance
Long-Term Goal: Expand scholarship opportunities and support advanced training programs
Matching Gifts: The Delta Foundation contributed $5,000 initially and will match donations up to $5,000 annually
About A&P Certification
FAA Airframe & Powerplant certification requires training in areas such as:
Aircraft structures and sheet metal repair
Hydraulics and pneumatics
Electrical systems and avionics
Powerplant maintenance for piston and turbine engines
Regulatory compliance and safety standards
This training equips graduates to maintain safety and reliability in both commercial and military aviation.
Looking Ahead
Cowart is collaborating with MGA’s Foundation and Delta TechOps Training to promote a scholarship and encourage other aviation professionals to make similar contributions. The Delta Air Lines Foundation’s Matching Gifts to Education Program enables employees, retirees, and Board members to double their donations to accredited educational institutions, up to $5,000 per person each calendar year. This initiative supports Delta’s commitment to education and community development.
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