Claude Edward Elkins Jr: From Brakeman to Railroad Executive
Claude Edward Elkins Jr‘s career is a powerful example of the American dream in action. His journey from a physical laborer on the railroad tracks to a top executive in a Fortune 500 company highlights the transformative power of hard work, education, and resilience. This is the story of how one man’s dedication and unique leadership style propelled him to the highest levels of the American rail industry.
This article explores his early life, his steady career climb at Norfolk Southern, and the leadership philosophy shaped by his hands-on experience. You will learn how his military service and education laid a foundation for success and how his story continues to inspire future leaders in the transportation sector.
Early Life and Foundation
Claude Edward Elkins Jr., often known as Ed Elkins, grew up in the Appalachian region of Southwest Virginia, an area with a deep-rooted connection to the railroad industry . His upbringing in this tight-knit community instilled in him a strong work ethic, discipline, and a respect for hard work from an early age . These values would become the bedrock of his professional character.
Before his career in railroading, Elkins served in the United States Marine Corps . His military service was a formative experience, teaching him leadership, teamwork, and how to perform under pressure . The discipline and mental toughness he developed in the Marines became essential assets in his future career, helping him navigate complex challenges and make strategic decisions .
Elkins built his educational foundation with a unique blend of humanities and business. He first earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise . This degree provided him with invaluable skills in communication and critical thinking, which proved vital for his later roles in marketing and executive leadership . He later pursued an MBA with a focus on Port and Maritime Economics from Old Dominion University, giving him a specialized understanding of logistics, transportation economics, and supply chain management .
A Railroad Career Built from the Ground Up
Elkins began his professional journey at Norfolk Southern in 1988, not in a corporate office, but on the rails, starting as a road brakeman . This entry-level position was physically demanding and required a deep understanding of railroad operations and safety protocols . He did not see this as just a job, but as a rewarding opportunity to learn the industry from the ground up .
His commitment and understanding of the business led him to advance through several critical operational roles, including conductor, locomotive engineer, and relief yardmaster . Each position gave him practical insights into the daily functions and challenges of railroad operations. This firsthand experience made him uniquely qualified for future leadership roles, as he could connect with employees at all levels and make strategic decisions based on real-world knowledge .
Climbing the Corporate Ladder
In the mid-2000s, Elkins made a pivotal transition from operations to marketing and commercial leadership . He spent nearly two decades in intermodal marketing, where he honed his skills in building customer relationships and understanding the interconnectedness of different transportation modes .
His career progression at Norfolk Southern is a testament to his consistent performance and strategic vision:
- 2016: Promoted to Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing .
- 2018: Became Vice President of Industrial Products, managing the transportation of metals, construction materials, and forest products .
- 2021: Reached the pinnacle of his commercial career when he was named Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer .
In this top-level role, Elkins now oversees a vast portfolio including Intermodal, Automotive, Industrial Products, Real Estate, Field Sales, and Customer Logistics . He is responsible for guiding the company’s commercial strategy, driving revenue growth, and maintaining Norfolk Southern’s competitive edge in the freight transportation market .
Leadership Style and Industry Impact
Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s leadership style is a direct reflection of his unique journey. His approach is characterized by a ground-level understanding of operations, a customer-centric focus, and the discipline instilled in him during his military service .
One of the most defining aspects of his leadership is his authentic perspective on the challenges faced by frontline employees. Because he has worked in physically demanding roles like brakeman and locomotive engineer, he can empathize with the workforce and make decisions that are both strategic and realistic . This earns him respect and credibility throughout the company.
Elkins is also known for his customer-first approach. His extensive background in marketing taught him the importance of building strong customer relationships and focusing on reliability and satisfaction . Under his leadership, Norfolk Southern has worked to enhance service reliability and develop tailored logistics solutions for its customers .
His impact on the rail industry is significant. Elkins has been a champion of initiatives aimed at improving operational efficiency, safety, and sustainability . He has supported the adoption of new technologies and promoted rail transportation as one of the most environmentally efficient ways to move freight, helping Norfolk Southern navigate a rapidly changing transportation landscape .
Personal Legacy and Lasting Influence
Beyond his corporate duties, Elkins is deeply committed to community and industry service. He actively contributes to several boards and organizations, including:
- Vice Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce .
- Board Member of the National Association of Manufacturers .
- Board Member of the East Lake Foundation .
- Director of TTX Company .
These roles demonstrate his dedication to economic development, education, and collaboration across the logistics and transportation sectors .
Elkins’s career is a powerful case study in how hands-on experience, continuous education, and personal integrity can build an extraordinary leader. His story proves that understanding a business from the ground up creates a strong foundation for executive success . He embodies the idea that long-term commitment and a willingness to learn at every stage of one’s career are powerful drivers of growth .
For aspiring professionals, his journey offers clear lessons: start where you are and learn everything you can, combine education with real-world experience, build relationships based on trust, and always maintain a commitment to continuous learning and community service .
Final Thoughts
Claude Edward Elkins Jr. transformed from a railroad brakeman to a Norfolk Southern executive through unwavering dedication, strategic education, and a character built on Appalachian and Marine Corps values. His legacy is a reminder that true leadership is earned through experience, resilience, and a genuine commitment to people.
His story continues to inspire a new generation of leaders in transportation and beyond. Ed Elkins shows that with discipline and a commitment to excellence, anyone can build their own track to success.
FAQs
What is Claude Edward Elkins Jr. known for?
He is known for his rise from a brakeman at Norfolk Southern to Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, showcasing a unique ground-up career journey in the railroad industry.
What was Claude Elkins’ first job at Norfolk Southern?
He started in 1988 as a road brakeman, a physically demanding entry-level position that involved significant manual labor and understanding of train operations.
How did his military service influence his career?
His service in the U.S. Marine Corps instilled discipline, leadership, and the ability to perform under pressure, qualities that became foundational to his business leadership style.
What boards does Claude Edward Elkins Jr. serve on?
He holds positions on several boards, including the Georgia Chamber of Commerce (Vice Chair), the National Association of Manufacturers, and the East Lake Foundation.
