In an industry defined by heavy equipment, complex scheduling and unforgiving infrastructure, few executives can truly claim to have risen from the ground floor to the top echelons of leadership. Yet that is exactly the story of Claude Edward Elkins Jr., who began his career as a road brakeman with Norfolk Southern Corporation in 1988 and over decades progressed into the company’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. His journey from railroad tracks to boardrooms exemplifies not only personal dedication and professional evolution, but also how deep operational experience can inform strategic leadership. In this article we’ll explore his early life and education, how his military service shaped his mindset, the critical steps in his career progression, his impact on Norfolk Southern’s commercial and logistics operations, and the leadership qualities that underlie his success.
Early Life, Military Service & Educational Foundation
Claude Edward “El” Elkins Jr. (often known as Ed Elkins) hails from Southwest Virginia, a region deeply rooted in rail history, coal and industry. After graduating with a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise, he pursued an MBA in Port and Maritime Economics at Old Dominion University, equipping him with strong logistics and global‑trade acumen. norfolksouthern.mediaroom.com+3serailshippers.com+3Equilar+3 Before
Climbing the Railroad Ladder: From Brakeman to Commercial Leader
Elkins began at Norfolk Southern as a road brakeman in 1988, one of the most challenging front‑line positions in the rail industry. Over time he advanced to conductor, locomotive engineer and yardmaster—gaining a comprehensive understanding of railroad operations from the ground up. serailshippers.com+2Altrata+2 After two decades in operational roles, he transitioned into intermodal marketing—a critical juncture where his operational experience and business education converged. In 2016 he became Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing, and by 2018 he was Vice President of Industrial Products.
Strategic Impact: Commercial & Logistics Transformation
Under his leadership, the company emphasized customer‑centric logistics, streamlined operations and strengthened service offerings across automotive and industrial verticals. Equilar+1 His background in intermodal marketing positions him well to lead in a logistics environment where rail must compete with trucking and container shipping for share of freight movements.
Conclusion
Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s journey is both inspiring and instructive—from his early days in railroad operations to his current role as Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern. His ability to translate operational experience into strategic leadership underscores the value of deep industry knowledge, continuous education and adaptive thinking. As the logistics and transportation sectors evolve rapidly in response to global supply chain shifts, sustainability pressures and digital transformation, leaders like Elkins will play a pivotal role.
FAQ
Q1. Who is Claude Edward Elkins Jr.?
Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern Corporation. He has risen through operational and commercial roles over a multi‑decade career in the rail industry. Equilar+1
Q2. What was his early career path?
He began his railroad career in 1988 as a road brakeman, then progressed to conductor, locomotive engineer and yardmaster before transitioning into marketing and commercial leadership roles. serailshippers.com+1
Q3. What educational qualifications does he hold?
Elkins holds a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and earned an MBA in Port and Maritime Economics from Old Dominion University. Equilar+1
Q4. What are his responsibilities at Norfolk Southern?
As Chief Commercial Officer, he leads the company’s Intermodal, Automotive and Industrial Products business divisions, as well as real estate, industrial development and customer logistics functions. serailshippers.com+1
Q5. What leadership lessons can we learn from his career?
Key lessons include: gaining operational experience early, investing in continuous learning, leading with humility and credibility, bridging front‑line realities with strategic goals, and staying adaptable in evolving industries.
