Claude Edward Elkins Jr., widely known as Ed Elkins, stands out as a top executive in America’s freight rail industry. He serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern Corporation, one of the nation’s largest Class I railroads. His story matters because it shows how someone can climb from an entry-level job on the tracks to leading major business divisions that move billions of dollars in goods every year. In an era when supply chains face constant disruption, Elkins represents the power of steady career growth, continuous learning, and community-focused leadership. Readers interested in business success, rail transportation, or inspiring real-life journeys will find his path both relatable and motivating.
Early Life and Path into Railroading
Ed Elkins grew up in Southwest Virginia, a region shaped by hardworking communities and a strong railroad heritage. After serving in the United States Marine Corps, he joined Norfolk Southern in 1988 as a road brakeman—an entry-level operations role that involves hands-on work on freight trains. This start was far from glamorous. Long hours, physical demands, and unpredictable schedules tested new hires, yet Elkins embraced the experience as a foundation for future growth.
He quickly advanced through operational roles: conductor, locomotive engineer, and relief yardmaster. These positions built deep knowledge of day-to-day rail operations, safety protocols, and customer needs. The transition from military service to rail work gave him discipline and resilience that later defined his leadership.
Steady Rise Through the Ranks
Elkins’ career at Norfolk Southern spans more than 35 years and reflects deliberate progression rather than overnight success. After his time in operations, he spent two decades in intermodal marketing, where he learned how to connect rail services with shipping customers across North America.
Key milestones include:
- 2016: Named Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing
- 2018: Promoted to Vice President of Industrial Products
- December 2021: Appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer (initially titled Chief Marketing Officer in some early announcements)
In his current role, Elkins oversees the company’s Intermodal, Automotive, and Industrial Products divisions. He also manages real estate development, short-line partnerships, field sales, and customer logistics. These responsibilities directly influence how Norfolk Southern moves everything from consumer goods to raw materials while prioritizing safety, efficiency, and sustainability. The railroad helps customers cut carbon emissions by millions of tons annually by shifting freight from trucks to rail—an impact Elkins actively champions.
Leadership Style and Values
Elkins emphasizes collaboration, predictable service, and long-term thinking. He believes high-quality, safe operations paired with strong productivity create growth for both the company and its customers. His approach draws from hands-on rail experience: he understands the realities of moving freight and translates that into customer-focused strategies.
He also values education. Elkins earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and an MBA from Old Dominion University with a focus on port and maritime economics. He later completed management certificates from Harvard Business School, the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, and the University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute. This lifelong learning mindset sets him apart in an industry that constantly evolves with technology and global trade shifts.
Community Leadership and Philanthropy
Beyond the railroad, Elkins invests time in boards and community organizations. He currently serves as Vice Chair (and incoming 2025 Chair) of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. In this role, he advocates for business growth and sustainable development across the state, where Norfolk Southern has deep roots dating back to the 1840s.
He sits on the boards of the East Lake Foundation, the National Association of Manufacturers, and TTX Company. He also participates in the Georgia State University Marketing RoundTable and The Conference Board’s Council for Chief Marketing Officers. When joining the East Lake Foundation board, Elkins noted his inspiration from the organization’s work to provide equitable resources for families and communities.
These commitments show his belief that business success and community impact go hand in hand. Rail transport supports local economies by reducing truck traffic—something the Georgia Chamber highlights in its reports—and Elkins uses his platform to amplify these benefits.
Latest Developments and Industry Insights
Recent years highlight Elkins’ growing influence. In 2025, he advanced to Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and addressed lawmakers and business leaders at the annual Eggs & Issues event. He stressed Georgia’s role as a global business hub and the importance of rail in keeping supply chains strong.
YouTube videos from Norfolk Southern provide up-to-date glimpses into his thinking. In a June 2025 recap from Reuters Events: Supply Chain USA, Elkins appeared alongside the Chief Operating Officer to discuss agility and resilience in logistics. He highlighted the need for real-time value delivery in a changing world. Another 2025 video on rail and recycling partnerships features Elkins touring facilities and explaining how rail supports the circular economy by moving recycled materials efficiently.
In a November 2024 Bloomberg Intelligence podcast (widely referenced in industry circles), Elkins shared Norfolk Southern’s strategy: combining safe, predictable service with productivity to drive growth. He pointed to intermodal shipping as a standout strength—the second-largest network in North America—and emphasized building supply chains around reliable rail to save money and cut emissions. These recent appearances show Elkins focusing on practical solutions for customers amid economic pressures and sustainability demands.
Lessons and Practical Tips for Aspiring Leaders
Elkins’ journey offers clear takeaways anyone can apply:
- Start where you are: Entry-level roles build irreplaceable knowledge—use them as stepping stones.
- Keep learning: Combine formal education (degrees, certificates) with on-the-job experience for long-term advantage.
- Focus on people and service: Strong teams and customer relationships matter more than short-term wins.
- Give back: Board service and community involvement strengthen both personal growth and professional networks.
- Adapt to change: In rail or any industry, emphasize safety, reliability, and sustainability to stay ahead.
Whether you work in transportation, manufacturing, or another field, these principles help turn challenges into career momentum.
Conclusion
Claude Edward Elkins Jr. proves that dedication, military-honed discipline, and continuous self-improvement can lead to extraordinary success. From his first days as a brakeman in 1988 to guiding Norfolk Southern’s commercial strategy today, he has helped power America’s economy while staying grounded in community values. His story reminds us that leadership is built over decades, not overnight. For professionals seeking inspiration or anyone curious about the people behind our supply chains, Ed Elkins offers a powerful example of what focused effort and service-oriented thinking can achieve. As he steps into new leadership roles in 2025 and beyond, his emphasis on reliable service and sustainable growth continues to shape the future of freight rail—and sets a benchmark for the next generation of leaders.
FAQs
Claude Edward Elkins Jr., commonly known as Ed Elkins, is the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern Corporation. He is recognized for rising from an entry-level railroad role to a senior leadership position in the U.S. freight rail industry.
Elkins holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and an MBA from Old Dominion University. He has also completed executive programs at Harvard Business School and other leading institutions.
Elkins plays a key role in shaping Norfolk Southern’s commercial strategy and improving rail logistics across North America. His work supports more efficient freight movement and helps businesses reduce transportation costs and emissions.
Norfolk Southern supports industries such as automotive manufacturing, agriculture, chemicals, consumer goods, and industrial materials. Elkins helps ensure these sectors benefit from reliable rail transportation.