Claude Edward Elkins Jr represents the American dream in action. Starting as a railroad brakeman in 1988, Ed Elkins climbed from the tracks to become Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern.
His journey from Southwest Virginia to Fortune 500 leadership showcases how Appalachian work ethic, military discipline, and lifelong learning create extraordinary success.
This railroad industry executive proves that understanding your business from the ground up builds the strongest leaders.
Who Is Claude Edward Elkins Jr? Early Life in Southwest Virginia
Claude Edward Elkins Jr grew up in Southwest Virginia, where railroads shaped entire communities. This Appalachian community taught him the values that would define his career: hard work, discipline, and respect for others.
The region’s railroad heritage ran deep. Families understood that success came through dedication, not shortcuts. Young Ed Elkins learned these lessons early, watching how the rail industry connected his community to the wider world.
His family name carried weight too. Being a “Jr.” meant living up to standards set by previous generations. This responsibility shaped his character and prepared him for leadership roles that would come decades later.
Military Foundation: How Marine Corps Service Shaped His Leadership
Before joining Norfolk Southern, Claude Edward Elkins Jr served in the United States Marine Corps. This experience became the foundation of his leadership style.
The U.S. Marine Corps builds leaders through discipline and teamwork. These qualities would prove essential when Elkins faced challenges in the railroad industry. Military training taught him to stay calm under pressure and make decisions quickly.
Marine Corps discipline and leadership principles stayed with him throughout his career. Colleagues often notice his steady approach to problems and his ability to bring teams together during difficult times.
Education Journey: From English Degree to MBA in Maritime Economics
Ed Elkins understood that education opens doors. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. This University of Virginia’s College at Wise alumni gained strong communication skills that would serve him well in business.
Later, he pursued an MBA in Port and Maritime Economics from Old Dominion University. This specialized degree gave him deep knowledge of global trade and transportation.
His learning didn’t stop there. Claude Edward Elkins Jr attended executive programs at Harvard Business School, the University of Virginia’s Darden School of Business, and the University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute. These programs kept him current with industry trends and leadership practices.
Starting at the Bottom: Elkins’ First Years as Norfolk Southern Brakeman
In 1988, Claude Edward Elkins Jr began his career journey from brakeman to leader at Norfolk Southern. He started as a road brakeman, one of the toughest jobs in railroading.
Railroad brakeman career path meant long hours, physical demands, and working in all weather conditions. Elkins didn’t complain. He learned every aspect of rail operations through hands-on experience.
He advanced to conductor, then locomotive engineer, and finally relief yardmaster. Each role taught him something new about the business. This locomotive engineer and yardmaster experience gave him credibility that most executives never gain.
The Intermodal Years: Two Decades Building Customer Relationships
Ed Elkins spent nearly twenty years in intermodal marketing in railroads. This role connected Norfolk Southern with trucking companies, shipping lines, and customers across America.
Intermodal freight shipping connections are complex. Goods move from trucks to trains to ships, requiring careful coordination. Elkins excelled at building relationships that made these connections work smoothly.
His customer-first approach in logistics helped Norfolk Southern intermodal operations grow during this period. He understood both the operational challenges and customer needs, making him a valuable bridge between different parts of the business.
Corporate Climb: Vice President Roles in Chemicals and Industrial Products
Claude Edward Elkins Jr proved himself ready for bigger challenges. In 2016, he became Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing, overseeing the transportation of plastics, fertilizers, and other industrial chemicals.
Chemicals and industrial products marketing requires deep technical knowledge and strong customer relationships. Elkins managed both successfully, growing revenue while maintaining safety standards.
In 2018, he moved to Vice President of Industrial Products. This role covered metals, construction materials, and forest products. These sectors face constant market changes, testing his leadership style resilience and adaptability.
Executive Leadership: Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern
December 2021 marked the pinnacle of Ed Elkins’ career. Norfolk Southern named him Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. This position oversees the company’s entire commercial portfolio.
As Chief Commercial Officer, Claude Edward Elkins Jr manages Intermodal, Automotive, Industrial Products, Real Estate, Industrial Development, Short Line Marketing, Field Sales, and Customer Logistics. His responsibilities include growing revenue and keeping the company competitive.
The Norfolk Southern leadership team benefits from his unique background. Few executives understand both ground-level operations and strategic planning like Elkins does.
Norfolk Southern Career Timeline: 1988 to Present
- 1988: Started as road brakeman
- 1990s-2000s: Advanced through conductor, engineer, and yardmaster roles
- 2000s-2015: Two decades in intermodal marketing
- 2016: Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing
- 2018: Vice President of Industrial Products
- December 2021: Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer
Key Positions Held at Norfolk Southern Railway
Claude Edward Elkins Jr has held every major type of position at Norfolk Southern:
Operational Roles: Brakeman, conductor, locomotive engineer, relief yardmaster Marketing Roles: Various intermodal marketing positions Executive Roles: Group VP Chemicals, VP Industrial Products, EVP and CCO
This progression shows how Norfolk Southern develops leaders from within, promoting people who understand the business deeply.
Beyond the Railroad: Community Service and Industry Boards
Ed Elkins believes leaders should serve their communities. He serves as Vice Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, helping shape business policy in his adopted home state.
His board member positions include the National Association of Manufacturers, East Lake Foundation, and TTX Company. Each role lets him contribute expertise while learning from other leaders.
He participates in the Georgia State University Marketing Roundtable and The Conference Board’s Council for CMOs. These forums allow him to share insights about supply chain management in rail industry challenges and opportunities.
Educational Background and Executive Training Programs
Claude Edward Elkins Jr biography shows a commitment to continuous learning:
- Bachelor of Arts in English: University of Virginia’s College at Wise
- MBA in Port and Maritime Economics: Old Dominion University
- Executive Programs: Harvard Business School
- Leadership Training: Darden School of Business
- Supply Chain Education: University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute
This combination of liberal arts, business, and specialized logistics education prepared him for complex leadership challenges.
Leadership Style: What Makes Claude Elkins Jr Effective
Claude Edward Elkins Jr leads through humility and discipline in leadership. His Appalachian values in business emphasize treating people with respect and keeping promises.
Colleagues describe him as calm and approachable. His years in field operations make him relatable to employees throughout Norfolk Southern. Workers know he understands their challenges because he’s done their jobs.
His customer-first approach comes from years of building relationships in intermodal marketing. He knows that happy customers create sustainable business growth.
Industry Recognition and Professional Affiliations
Ed Elkins has earned recognition throughout the freight transportation and logistics industry. His professional affiliations include:
- Vice Chair: Georgia Chamber of Commerce
- Board Member: National Association of Manufacturers
- Board Member: East Lake Foundation
- Director: TTX Company
- Participant: Georgia State University Marketing Roundtable
- Member: The Conference Board’s Council for CMOs
These positions reflect his reputation as a thoughtful leader who contributes to industry discussions.
Career Challenges: Navigating Industry Pressures and Market Changes
The U.S. railroad industry faces constant challenges. Global supply chain disruptions, trucking vs. rail competition, and changing customer demands test every leader.
Claude Edward Elkins Jr has navigated these challenges in U.S. railroad industry with steady leadership. His operational background helps him understand what’s possible, while his commercial experience guides customer strategy.
Supply chain management became especially challenging during recent global disruptions. Elkins’ calm approach helped Norfolk Southern maintain service levels when many logistics companies struggled.
Financial Success: Claude Elkins Jr Net Worth and Holdings
Public filings show Claude Edward Elkins Jr holds Norfolk Southern stock valued between $33,000 and $470,000, depending on market conditions and reporting periods.
His income sources include:
- Executive salary as Chief Commercial Officer
- Performance-based bonuses tied to company results
- Stock grants that vest over time
While not at the highest levels of executive compensation in transportation, these figures reflect steady career growth and company loyalty.
Personal Character: The Man Behind the Executive Title
Claude Edward Elkins Jr keeps his personal life private, preferring to let his work speak for itself. This approach reflects both his Appalachian upbringing and Marine Corps training.
Colleagues describe him as dependable, respectful, and committed to service. His preference for action over self-promotion shows humility that’s rare among Fortune 500 executives.
His Southwest Virginia roots remain important to him. The values learned in that Appalachian community continue to guide his leadership decisions.
Career Legacy: Lessons from Brakeman to C-Suite Success
What Claude Elkins Jr’s story teaches about career growth goes beyond individual success. His journey shows that understanding your industry from the ground up creates the strongest leaders.
His path offers lessons for anyone seeking career advancement:
- Start where you are and learn everything possible
- Combine education with real-world experience
- Build relationships based on trust and competence
- Stay committed to continuous learning
- Serve your community while building your career
What Claude Elkins Jr’s Story Teaches About Career Growth
Claude Edward Elkins Jr proves that corporate community engagement and professional success can go together. His railroad industry executive career shows how Appalachian work ethic and Marine Corps discipline create lasting leadership.
His story inspires others in Fortune 500 transportation companies and beyond. The combination of field experience, education, and character creates leaders who can navigate any challenge.
Conclusion
Claude Edward Elkins Jr transformed from railroad brakeman to Norfolk Southern executive through dedication, education, and character.
His career journey from brakeman to leader proves that understanding your business from every level creates the strongest foundation for success.
Ed Elkins shows that Appalachian work ethic, Marine Corps discipline, and continuous learning can take anyone from the tracks to the boardroom. His legacy inspires future leaders in transportation and beyond.
