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Explore the inspiring journey of Claude Edward Elkins Jr, rising from a railroad brakeman to Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern. Learn about his education, career milestones, and leadership impact.
Introduction
The story of Claude Edward Elkins Jr stands as a compelling example of perseverance, adaptability, and leadership. Rising from humble beginnings in railroad operations, he now oversees major commercial and logistics operations at Norfolk Southern, one of America’s largest rail transportation companies.
Early Life, Education & Military Service
Born in Southwest Virginia, Claude Edward Elkins Jr grew up in a community that valued discipline and hard work—qualities he later carried into both military and corporate life.
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Military Service: He began his professional journey in the U.S. Marine Corps, which grounded him in leadership and resilience that would define his career.
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Education: Elkins earned a Bachelor’s in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise, followed by an MBA in Port & Maritime Economics from Old Dominion University—an educational blend that combines communication expertise with logistics acumen.
Career Path: From Operations to Executive Leadership
Railroad Operations (1988 Onward)
Claude began at Norfolk Southern in 1988 as a Road Brakeman, then advanced through operational roles—Conductor, Locomotive Engineer, and Yardmaster—gaining invaluable on-the-ground experience.
Transition to Marketing & Commercial Leadership
The next chapter of his career shifted toward strategic roles:
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Intermodal Marketing, where he gained a reputation for customer-first solutions.
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Vice President of Chemicals Marketing in 2016.
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Vice President of Industrial Products by 2018, handling logistics for key commodities.
Executive Role at Norfolk Southern
In 2021, Claude Edward Elkins Jr was promoted to Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer (CCO). He now leads divisions including Intermodal, Automotive, Industrial Products, Real Estate, Field Sales, and Customer Logistics.
Leadership Beyond the Railroad
His leadership extends into community and industry roles:
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Vice Chair, Georgia Chamber of Commerce
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Board member at East Lake Foundation, National Association of Manufacturers, TTX Company, and the Georgia State University Marketing RoundTable
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Active contributor in The Conference Board’s Council for CMOs.
Key Achievements & Industry Impact
Claude Edward Elkins Jr’s leadership in expanding customer networks, modernizing logistics, and driving revenue growth has positioned Norfolk Southern for sustained success. He continues to tackle challenges like supply chain disruptions, economic shifts, and regulatory pressures.
Challenges on the Road Ahead
Despite his success, Elkins faces:
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Competition from alternative freight carriers
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Economic volatility impacting the transportation industry
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Balancing sustainability with profitability
His operational and strategic acumen help him navigate these complex industry dynamics effectively.
Quick Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Claude Edward “Ed” Elkins Jr. |
| Current Position | EVP & Chief Commercial Officer, Norfolk Southern |
| Industry Experience | Over 35 years in rail and commercial leadership |
| Educational Background | BA in English; MBA in Port & Maritime Economics |
| Board & Community Involvement | Georgia Chamber, NAM, East Lake Foundation, TTX Company, more |
FAQs
1. Who is Claude Edward Elkins Jr?
He’s the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern, leading major commercial divisions.
2. How did he begin his career?
He started as a Road Brakeman in 1988 following his military service.
3. What are his educational credentials?
He holds a BA in English and an MBA in Port & Maritime Economics.
4. What roles does he fill outside Norfolk Southern?
He serves on multiple boards, including Georgia Chamber, NAM, and others.
5. What makes his leadership notable?
He combines hands-on operational understanding with strategic execution and community leadership.
Conclusion
Claude Edward Elkins Jr’s career journey—from a railroad brakeman to one of Norfolk Southern’s top executives—demonstrates the power of dedication, education, and experiential leadership. His story is a blueprint for growth in any industry, revealing how balanced expertise and resilience lead not only to individual success but also to legacy-building leadership.
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