Officials with Phillips 66 Aviation presented the 2026 Phillips 66 Aviation Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA) Young Eagles Leadership Award to Patrick Cohenour during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026.
As Young Eagles Coordinator for EAA Chapter 24 in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, Cohenour has dedicated hundreds of hours introducing youth to aviation, inspiring the next generation of pilots, engineers, and aviation enthusiasts, according to company officials.
“Patrick Cohenour embodies everything this award represents,” said Jennifer Claunch, Manager, Aviation Sales, Phillips 66. “His enthusiasm for aviation and commitment to mentoring youths have created experiences that will inspire future aviators for years to come. We’re honored to recognize Patrick during EAA AirVenture Oshkosh for the lasting impact he’s made through the Young Eagles program.”
For Cohenour, aviation has been a lifelong dream. As a child, he remembers looking into the evening sky, spotting the blinking lights of airplanes and wondering where they were headed. Although he was unable to pursue a military career due to eyesight requirements, his passion for flight never diminished.
His dream became reality in 1988 when a neighbor who taught at the FAA Academy offered him flying lessons. He and his wife embraced aviation together, purchasing their first aircraft, a Piper Arrow, that same summer. Years later, while building an experimental aircraft, Cohenour joined EAA to connect with fellow aircraft builders and aviators. When his chapter needed a Young Eagles coordinator, he volunteered. Now, he says this role has become the most meaningful part of his aviation journey.
Since then, Cohenour has helped expand youth aviation programming at EAA Chapter 24, introducing children to flight while encouraging hands-on learning through aircraft projects and educational activities.
“If even one person discovers a passion for aviation because of a Young Eagles flight, then we’ve made an impact,” said Cohenour. “General aviation offers an experience that’s completely different from flying on a jet, and I just love to see the excitement in their eyes as they see what’s out the window for the first time. Whether they become pilots or simply gain a greater appreciation for aviation, I hope every child leaves inspired.”
Cohenour believes the program gives young people a chance to disconnect from screens and experience something unforgettable firsthand. He also credits the success of their Young Eagles program to the many volunteers of EAA Chapter 24 and sister chapters 1098 in Shawnee and 1612 in Goldsby, with whom Patrick regularly coordinates flights. He is also grateful to Jerry Hunger, owner of Sundance Airpark, Chapter 24’s home base, for his support for the past 11 years, and his wife’s unwavering support for making his service possible.
“I’m honored that someone took the time to nominate me, and I’m incredibly humbled to receive this award,” said Cohenour. “Young Eagles has become such an important part of my life. What started as a way to give back has grown into something I’ve enjoyed every moment helping introduce kids to the joy of flight.”
For three decades, Phillips 66 Aviation has sponsored EAA Young Eagles and supported outstanding volunteers. Phillips 66 continues to provide a $1-per-gallon avgas rebate to all Young Eagles volunteer pilots,.
For more information: Phillips66Aviation.com, EAA.org
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