10 Lessons from Claude Edward Elkins Jr Leadership Journey

Every leader has a story, and the story of Claude Edward Elkins Jr—often known as Ed Elkins—is one of discipline, grit, and determination. Born and raised in Southwest Virginia, Elkins grew up in an environment where resilience was more than just a word; it was a way of life. His values of hard work and commitment became even stronger when he joined the United States Marine Corps, where he learned lessons of leadership, endurance, and adaptability that would later define his professional path.

Military service instilled in him a sense of accountability and mission-driven focus. These qualities would later serve as a foundation as he transitioned into the corporate world, particularly the railroad industry—an industry known for its complexity and demanding nature.

Educational Pursuits that Shaped His Perspective

Unlike many executives who follow a conventional business pathway, Claude Edward Elkins Jr pursued a more diverse educational background. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. This humanities foundation sharpened his communication skills, problem-solving ability, and adaptability—traits that became invaluable in customer relations and team leadership.

Later, he pursued an MBA in Port & Maritime Economics at Old Dominion University. This unique blend of literature and logistics gave him a dual advantage: he could craft compelling strategies while also understanding the technical dimensions of supply chains and freight economics.

To stay at the forefront of leadership, Elkins also engaged in executive education, completing programs at Harvard Business School, the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business, and the University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute. This continuous learning showcased his belief that leadership is a journey of growth, not a final destination.

First Steps into the Railroad Industry

In 1988, Elkins entered the world of railroads with Norfolk Southern—one of the most prominent rail companies in the United States. His starting role was as a Road Brakeman, a job that demanded precision, safety, and a deep understanding of train operations. From there, he worked as a Conductor, a Locomotive Engineer, and a Relief Yardmaster.

These early roles were not glamorous, but they gave him something far more valuable than prestige—they gave him firsthand knowledge of how railroads function at the ground level. Few executives can claim to have such deep operational experience, and this foundation made him uniquely positioned to understand both the challenges and opportunities within the industry.

Moving from Operations to Marketing

Elkins’s journey took a strategic turn when he moved into intermodal marketing. This transition showcased his ability to adapt and leverage his operational knowledge in customer-focused roles. Intermodal transportation—the movement of freight in containers using multiple modes like rail and truck—was becoming increasingly critical to supply chains.

His insights helped Norfolk Southern align its services more closely with customer needs, strengthening relationships and building new growth opportunities. By 2016, he had risen to become Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing, and by 2018, he advanced again to Vice President of Industrial Products.

These positions gave him the responsibility of handling multimillion-dollar portfolios and driving growth in critical business sectors.

Claude Edward Elkins Jr: Executive Leadership at Norfolk Southern

The pinnacle of his career came in 2021, when Claude Edward Elkins Jr was appointed Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Norfolk Southern. In this influential role, he took charge of a broad range of divisions including:

• Intermodal

• Automotive

• Industrial Products

• Real Estate

• Industrial Development

• Short Line Marketing

• Field Sales

• Customer Logistics

This wasn’t just about managing departments; it was about creating synergy between them. Elkins’s unique ability to integrate operations with marketing ensured that Norfolk Southern not only transported goods but also provided comprehensive logistics solutions.

His leadership came at a time when the global supply chain faced unprecedented challenges due to the pandemic and economic uncertainty. Elkins’s strategies helped Norfolk Southern remain resilient and competitive in a rapidly changing landscape.

Community and Board Leadership

Beyond the boardrooms of Norfolk Southern, Claude Edward Elkins Jr has made a strong impact in broader circles of business and community leadership. He serves as:

• Vice Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce

• A board member at the East Lake Foundation

• A contributor to the National Association of Manufacturers (NAM)

• A board member at TTX Company, a provider of railcars and fleet management services

• An active participant in the Georgia State University Marketing RoundTable

These roles show that his leadership extends far beyond his own organization. He invests time in shaping industry policies, supporting community initiatives, and mentoring future leaders.

Age and Career Longevity

As of 2025, Claude Edward Elkins Jr is 58 years old, with over 35 years of experience in the rail industry. Few leaders bring such a long span of service combined with continuous growth. His journey proves that success is not about shortcuts but about consistent progress, adaptability, and the willingness to take on challenges.

Impact on Modern Supply Chains

One of the defining aspects of Elkins’s leadership has been his role in transforming how railroads adapt to modern supply chains. Today’s customers demand efficiency, sustainability, and reliability. Under his leadership, Norfolk Southern has invested in digital technologies, better logistics coordination, and eco-friendly strategies.

For instance, reducing emissions in freight transport is a global priority, and Elkins has supported initiatives to make rail freight more sustainable. His vision aligns with long-term industry goals to reduce carbon footprints and support greener logistics solutions.

Challenges and Future Outlook

Like any leader, Elkins faces challenges. The rail industry is at a crossroads, competing with trucking, facing regulatory pressures, and navigating economic uncertainty. Moreover, customer expectations are evolving quickly with the rise of e-commerce and globalized trade.

But Elkins’s ability to balance operational experience with strategic foresight gives Norfolk Southern an edge. His leadership will likely focus on sustainability, digital transformation, and strengthening partnerships with customers.

Conclusion

Claude Edward Elkins Jr’s story is more than a professional biography—it’s a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and leadership. From his service in the Marine Corps to his early days as a brakeman and finally to the executive suite at Norfolk Southern, his journey highlights the power of continuous growth and resilience.

Today, as one of the most influential figures in the railroad industry, Elkins continues to shape not only Norfolk Southern but also the future of freight transportation in America. His career proves that true leadership is built step by step, fueled by discipline, and guided by vision.