In an industry where executives often climb corporate ladders through business schools and boardrooms, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. took a different path. His journey from a railroad brakeman to Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern Corporation represents one of the most inspiring leadership stories in modern American business. This transformation didn’t happen overnight—it required decades of dedication, continuous learning, and an unwavering commitment to excellence that continues to shape the railroad industry today.
Table of Contents
Early Foundations: Military Service and Railroad Beginnings
Military Background and Core Values
Claude Edward Elkins Jr. began his professional journey with service in the United States Marine Corps. This military experience instilled in him the discipline, leadership principles, and mental toughness that would later become hallmarks of his corporate leadership style. The Marines taught him the importance of mission-first thinking, team cohesion, and accountability—values that translate seamlessly into business leadership.
Starting from the Ground Up
In 1988, fresh from military service, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. joined Norfolk Southern Corporation as a road brakeman. This entry-level position, one of the most physically demanding and dangerous jobs in railroading, required him to couple and uncouple train cars, operate switches, and ensure safe train operations. Unlike many executives who enter industries through management training programs, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. literally started on the tracks.
His early roles included:
- Road Brakeman (1988)
- Conductor and Locomotive Engineer
- Relief Yardmaster in the Pocahontas Division
These positions gave Claude Edward Elkins Jr. an intimate understanding of railroad operations that few executives possess. He learned the technical aspects of train movement, safety protocols, and most importantly, gained deep empathy for frontline workers—knowledge that would prove invaluable in his future leadership roles.
Educational Excellence: Building on Experience
Understanding that practical experience needed academic reinforcement, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. pursued higher education while advancing his career. His educational journey reflects a commitment to continuous improvement:
- Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise (1989-1993)
- MBA in Maritime Economics from Old Dominion University’s Strome College of Business (2003-2007)
- Executive education certificates from Harvard Business School, UVA Darden School of Business, and the University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute
This combination of liberal arts foundation, specialized economics knowledge, and executive business training created a well-rounded leader capable of bridging operational realities with strategic vision.
Career Progression of Claude Edward Elkins Jr.: Two Decades of Growth
The Marketing Transition
After mastering operational roles, Elkins transitioned into Norfolk Southern’s marketing division, where he spent nearly two decades in intermodal marketing. Intermodal transportation—moving freight using multiple modes like rail, truck, and ship—represents the backbone of modern supply chains. This role required both technical expertise and strategic thinking.
During this period, Elkins demonstrated his ability to understand customer needs, optimize logistics solutions, and drive revenue growth. His success in intermodal marketing positioned him as a rising star within Norfolk Southern’s leadership ranks.
Leadership Milestones
Elkins’s ascent through Norfolk Southern’s executive ranks showcases consistent performance and expanding responsibilities:
| Year | Position | Key Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| 1988-1994 | Road Brakeman/Conductor/Engineer | Frontline railroad operations |
| 1994-1998 | Assistant Market Manager, Intermodal Marketing | Marketing strategy development |
| 1998-1999 | Intermodal Account Manager | Customer relationship management |
| 1999-2004 | General Manager, Sales and Domestic | Sales operations oversight |
| 2004-2011 | Director, Intermodal Marketing | Strategic marketing leadership |
| 2010-2013 | Director, International Marketing | Global market expansion |
| 2013-2016 | Group VP, International Intermodal Marketing | International operations |
| 2016-2018 | Group VP, Chemicals Marketing | Chemical industry focus |
| 2018-2021 | VP, Industrial Products | Industrial sector leadership |
| 2021-Present | Executive VP & Chief Commercial Officer | Comprehensive commercial operations |
Current Leadership Role: Chief Commercial Officer
Comprehensive Commercial Oversight
As Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Elkins oversees Norfolk Southern’s entire commercial operation. His responsibilities span multiple critical business units:
- Intermodal Operations: Managing freight movement across multiple transportation modes
- Automotive Division: Serving automobile manufacturers and suppliers
- Industrial Products: Handling metals, construction materials, and industrial goods
- Real Estate Development: Strategic property management and development
- Industrial Development: Attracting new industries to Norfolk Southern’s network
- Short Line Marketing: Managing relationships with smaller railroad partners
- Field Sales: Direct customer engagement and relationship building
- Customer Logistics: Providing comprehensive supply chain solutions
This broad portfolio requires deep industry knowledge, strategic vision, and the ability to balance diverse stakeholder interests—skills Elkins developed through his ground-up career progression.
Strategic Vision and Innovation
Under Elkins’s commercial leadership, Norfolk Southern has embraced technological innovation and customer-focused solutions. He has championed initiatives that improve operational efficiency while enhancing customer service. According to industry analysis, railroad companies that invest in both technology and employee development consistently outperform their competitors in customer satisfaction and financial performance.
Leadership Philosophy of Claude Edward Elkins Jr.: People-First Approach
Empathy Through Experience
Elkins’s unique background creates a leadership philosophy centered on understanding and empowering people. Having worked in entry-level positions, he brings genuine empathy to executive decision-making. This perspective influences several key aspects of his leadership:
Employee Development Focus:
- Mentoring programs for emerging leaders
- Investment in worker safety and training
- Recognition of frontline contributions to company success
Customer-Centric Solutions:
- Understanding operational realities when making promises to customers
- Balancing efficiency with service quality
- Building long-term relationships rather than focusing solely on short-term profits
Operational Excellence:
- Decisions informed by practical experience
- Focus on sustainable improvements rather than quick fixes
- Integration of technology with human expertise
Collaborative Leadership Style
Colleagues describe Elkins as a collaborative leader who values input from all levels of the organization. His military background provides structure and discipline, while his operational experience ensures he remains connected to day-to-day realities. This combination creates an environment where strategic vision meets practical execution.
Industry Impact and Recognition
Professional Achievements
Elkins’s contributions extend beyond Norfolk Southern through his involvement in industry organizations:
- Vice Chair: Georgia Chamber of Commerce
- Board Member: National Association of Manufacturers
- Board Member: East Lake Foundation
- Board Member: TTX Company
These roles demonstrate his commitment to broader industry development and community engagement. His influence helps shape policy discussions and industry best practices that benefit the entire railroad sector.
Innovation Leadership
Under Elkins’s commercial leadership, Norfolk Southern has implemented several innovative approaches:
- Advanced data analytics for customer service optimization
- Sustainable transportation solutions responding to environmental concerns
- Technology integration improving safety and efficiency
- Customer portal development enhancing service transparency
Community Engagement and Social Responsibility
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Elkins actively participates in community development initiatives. His involvement with the East Lake Foundation reflects a commitment to education and community revitalization. This engagement demonstrates how business leaders can leverage their success to create positive social impact.
His participation in educational initiatives also helps develop the next generation of industry leaders, ensuring knowledge transfer from experienced professionals to emerging talent.
The Railroad Industry’s Future
As the railroad industry faces challenges from technological disruption, environmental regulations, and changing customer expectations, leaders like Elkins play crucial roles in adaptation and evolution. His unique combination of operational experience, strategic vision, and people-focused leadership positions Norfolk Southern to navigate these challenges successfully.
The industry increasingly values leaders who understand both traditional railroad operations and modern logistics demands. Elkins’s career trajectory represents an ideal model for developing such comprehensive expertise.
Frequently Asked Questions About Claude Edward Elkins Jr.
Q: What makes Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s career path unique in the railroad industry?
A: Unlike many executives who enter through management training programs, Elkins started as a road brakeman and worked his way up through virtually every level of operations before reaching executive leadership. This ground-up experience gives him unique insights into both operational challenges and strategic opportunities.
Q: What are Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s main responsibilities as Chief Commercial Officer?
A: He oversees all commercial operations including Intermodal, Automotive, Industrial Products, Real Estate, Industrial Development, Short Line Marketing, Field Sales, and Customer Logistics. This comprehensive role requires balancing diverse business units and stakeholder interests.
Q: How does Claude Edward Elkins Jr. military background influence his business leadership?
A: His Marine Corps service instilled discipline, accountability, and mission-first thinking that translate directly into business leadership. The military emphasis on team cohesion and clear communication remains evident in his management style.
Q: What educational background supports his business expertise?
A: He holds a BA in English from UVA College at Wise, an MBA in Maritime Economics from Old Dominion University, and has completed executive education at Harvard Business School, UVA Darden, and the University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute.
Q: How does Elkins contribute to the broader community beyond Norfolk Southern?
A: He serves as Vice Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and sits on boards for the National Association of Manufacturers, East Lake Foundation, and TTX Company, demonstrating commitment to industry development and community engagement.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Leadership Excellence
Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s journey from railroad brakeman to Chief Commercial Officer represents more than personal success—it exemplifies the potential for growth when dedication meets opportunity. His story demonstrates that authentic leadership often emerges from understanding challenges at every level of an organization.
As the railroad industry continues evolving to meet 21st-century demands, leaders like Claude Edward Elkins Jr. provide the perfect combination of operational expertise and strategic vision. His people-first approach, grounded in real experience and enhanced by continuous learning, offers a blueprint for sustainable leadership excellence.
For aspiring business leaders, Elkins’s career illustrates that there’s no substitute for understanding your industry from the ground up, investing in continuous education, and maintaining genuine concern for the people who make organizations successful. His ongoing leadership at Norfolk Southern will undoubtedly continue shaping both the company and the broader railroad industry for years to come.
