The life and career of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is an inspiring example of how determination, education, and resilience can transform humble beginnings into executive leadership. Unlike many corporate leaders who step into boardrooms early in their careers, he started at the ground level of railroads, performing tough and demanding tasks as a brakeman. Over the years, he transitioned through operational, marketing, and leadership roles, eventually becoming the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern, one of the largest railroads in the United States.
This article takes a deep dive into his journey—from his early upbringing and military service to his education, professional path, leadership style, and industry impact. By exploring these aspects in detail, we can understand not only his personal achievements but also the values and lessons his career offers to future professionals.
Early Life and Background
Every leader’s story begins with roots that shape their character. For Claude Edward Elkins Jr., his early life in Southwest Virginia provided a strong foundation of community values, discipline, and perseverance. Growing up in a region known for its reliance on railroads, coal, and agriculture, he developed an appreciation for industries that require both physical endurance and mental resilience.
Family and Community Influence
Family and community play a vital role in shaping values, and this was certainly the case for Claude Edward Elkins Jr. In small Appalachian communities, people are judged not just by wealth or position but by honesty, work ethic, and reliability. These cultural traits shaped his personality early on and remained with him throughout his career. His reputation for humility and respect toward others can be traced back to these formative influences.
Service in the United States Marine Corps
Another significant chapter in his early life was his decision to serve in the United States Marine Corps. The Marine Corps is known for building resilience, courage, and commitment—values that aligned closely with his upbringing. For Claude Edward Elkins Jr., military service provided not only physical discipline but also mental toughness, leadership training, and the ability to thrive under pressure. These qualities became cornerstones of his professional identity later in life.
Through family, community, and military service, he entered adulthood with a strong sense of discipline, integrity, and responsibility—qualities that prepared him for the demanding world of railroads.
Education: Building Knowledge and Leadership Capacity
Education is a critical element in the growth of any leader, and for Claude Edward Elkins Jr., it complemented his practical experiences with theoretical knowledge and strategic skills. His educational background demonstrates a unique combination of communication, business, and industry-focused learning.
Undergraduate Studies in English
He began his academic journey with a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise. While an English degree might seem unusual for a future rail executive, it provided him with excellent communication and critical thinking skills. Leaders must be able to articulate their vision clearly, understand diverse perspectives, and negotiate effectively—all of which are strengthened by training in language and literature. For Claude Edward Elkins Jr., this background became invaluable later in marketing and executive roles where strong communication is essential.
Graduate Business Education
After his undergraduate studies, he pursued an MBA with a concentration in Port and Maritime Economics from Old Dominion University. This decision showed foresight, as logistics, ports, and transportation economics are at the core of the railroad industry. His MBA gave him a firm grasp of how supply chains function, how global trade connects to railroads, and how companies can strategically adapt to shifting market dynamics. For someone moving from operational roles to commercial leadership, this education was perfectly aligned with future challenges.
Executive Development Programs
In addition to formal degrees, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. also attended executive education programs at prestigious institutions like Harvard Business School, UVA’s Darden School of Business, and the University of Tennessee Supply Chain Institute. These advanced courses sharpened his leadership mindset, expanded his professional network, and exposed him to cutting-edge strategies in supply chain management. By combining communication, business strategy, and executive training, he built a knowledge base that allowed him to lead with both confidence and competence.
Career Path: From Brakeman to Executive
The professional journey of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is perhaps the most inspiring part of his story. Unlike executives who start their careers with corporate internships or management positions, he entered the workforce through one of the most physically demanding jobs in the rail industry: a brakeman. From there, he gradually climbed the ladder, taking on operational, commercial, and eventually executive roles. His career path shows how resilience, education, and adaptability can help individuals progress through different stages of leadership.
Early Operational Roles at Norfolk Southern
In 1988, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. began his career at Norfolk Southern as a road brakeman. This role, though entry-level, was vital to rail safety and operations. A brakeman’s job involved coupling and uncoupling train cars, handling signals, and ensuring the smooth movement of trains in coordination with engineers and conductors. The position was physically demanding, often requiring long hours in challenging weather conditions. However, it gave him a firsthand understanding of how railroads operate at the ground level.
Over time, he transitioned into other frontline roles such as conductor, locomotive engineer, and relief yardmaster. Each of these positions came with new responsibilities and broader exposure to operational processes. Conductors managed train crews and schedules, engineers handled train movements, and yardmasters oversaw rail yard activities. Through these roles, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. not only gained technical expertise but also developed respect for the dedication of frontline employees. This hands-on experience later allowed him to make decisions as an executive that were grounded in the realities of day-to-day rail operations.
Transition into Marketing and Commercial Leadership
After several years in operational positions, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. made a significant career shift into the marketing and commercial side of the business. This transition was a turning point because it allowed him to combine his deep operational knowledge with his academic training in business and economics. His first major commercial assignment was in intermodal marketing, where he worked to strengthen Norfolk Southern’s role in connecting rail transport with trucking and shipping. This role required him to understand not just the technical side of logistics but also the customer-facing aspects of the business.
In 2016, he was promoted to Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing, where he managed one of the most critical divisions for the railroad. Chemicals are a core part of rail freight, involving strict safety standards, customer relationships, and revenue generation. His success in this division demonstrated his ability to handle complexity, manage client expectations, and ensure operational efficiency. Just two years later, in 2018, he became Vice President of Industrial Products, where his responsibilities expanded to overseeing sectors such as metals, agriculture, and construction materials. These sectors are closely tied to national economic growth, and his leadership in this area positioned Norfolk Southern as a reliable partner in industrial supply chains.
Executive Leadership and Appointment as CCO
The culmination of his decades-long journey came in 2021, when Claude Edward Elkins Jr. was appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of Norfolk Southern. In this role, he oversees a wide portfolio that includes Intermodal, Automotive, Industrial Products, Real Estate, Industrial Development, Short Line Marketing, Field Sales, and Customer Logistics. This appointment represented not only the recognition of his skills and achievements but also the trust placed in his vision for the company’s future.
As CCO, his role is to ensure that Norfolk Southern remains competitive in a challenging transportation landscape. He has to balance operational efficiency with customer satisfaction while addressing issues like supply chain disruptions, environmental regulations, and competition from trucking and air freight. His career progression from brakeman to executive makes him uniquely qualified to lead these efforts, as he understands both the frontline struggles of employees and the strategic needs of the company.
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Leadership Style and Traits
Behind every accomplished executive lies a philosophy of leadership that defines how they inspire teams, build trust, and achieve results. For Claude Edward Elkins Jr., his leadership style is rooted in his unique career path, which began at the grassroots level and evolved into senior executive positions. Unlike leaders who come in with only theoretical knowledge, his style reflects a blend of practical operational experience, business acumen, and personal values developed through military service. This combination makes him relatable to employees across all levels of an organization and respected by peers and industry leaders alike.
Ground-Level Understanding of Operations
One of the most defining aspects of Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s leadership is his deep understanding of frontline operations. Having served as a brakeman, conductor, locomotive engineer, and yardmaster, he knows firsthand the challenges faced by workers on the ground. This allows him to empathize with employees and consider their perspectives when making corporate decisions. Leaders who rise solely through executive ranks often struggle to connect with frontline teams, but he stands apart because he has lived their experiences. This operational background also enables him to make more realistic and effective policies, as he balances strategic goals with practical feasibility.
Customer-Centric Approach
Another core trait of his leadership is a customer-first mindset. Through his years in marketing and commercial roles, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. learned the importance of aligning railroad services with customer needs. For industries like chemicals, agriculture, and construction, reliability and safety are paramount. His approach has been to listen actively to customers, understand their logistical challenges, and design solutions that strengthen long-term partnerships. This customer-centric philosophy is vital in an era where railroads compete directly with trucking and air freight. By focusing on trust, transparency, and adaptability, he has helped Norfolk Southern maintain strong commercial relationships and expand into new markets.
Influence of Military Discipline
Military service in the United States Marine Corps continues to shape his leadership style. The Marines emphasize honor, courage, and commitment—principles that are clearly reflected in the way Claude Edward Elkins Jr. leads teams and approaches challenges. Military discipline taught him to stay calm under pressure, make swift but thoughtful decisions, and inspire loyalty among those he leads. These traits are particularly valuable in the rail industry, where operational risks, regulatory pressures, and market uncertainties require steady, confident leadership.
Adaptability and Versatility
A final hallmark of his leadership is adaptability. Moving from operational roles into marketing and later into executive leadership required not only learning new skills but also rethinking his approach to problem-solving. Many leaders remain confined to one specialty, but Claude Edward Elkins Jr. demonstrated the versatility to excel in operations, customer relations, business strategy, and executive decision-making. This adaptability makes him a modern leader, capable of guiding a company through disruptions, technological changes, and evolving market expectations.
Influence and External Roles
Beyond his daily work at Norfolk Southern, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. has also taken on roles that show his wider influence in the rail industry and in economic development. These roles highlight how he is not just focused on his company but also on building partnerships, supporting industries, and contributing to communities. His work outside Norfolk Southern proves that leadership is not only about managing one business—it is also about shaping an entire industry and making a positive impact on society.
Role with TTX Company Board
One of the most important external positions of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is his membership on the Board of Directors for TTX Company. TTX is a railcar pooling company that provides equipment and services to railroads across North America. By serving on this board, he helps guide decisions that affect how railroads share resources and manage costs. His operational knowledge and marketing experience make him a valuable voice in these discussions. This role also gives him the opportunity to influence how different rail companies collaborate, ensuring that the industry as a whole becomes stronger and more efficient.
Partnership with the Railway Industrial Clearance Association (RICA)
Another area where he has influence is through his involvement with the Railway Industrial Clearance Association (RICA). This group focuses on the safe and effective transportation of oversized and heavy loads, which are critical for industries like construction, energy, and manufacturing. As someone with both operational and commercial experience, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. supports efforts to improve standards, share best practices, and strengthen relationships between shippers and railroads. His presence in RICA shows his commitment to safety, collaboration, and innovation in freight transportation.
Supporting Local and National Economic Growth
Through his leadership roles, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. also plays a part in supporting economic development. Railroads are central to the economy because they move essential goods such as chemicals, metals, agriculture, and construction materials. By helping businesses move their products efficiently, he indirectly supports job creation, regional growth, and national trade. This makes his influence larger than just the rail industry—his work affects farmers, manufacturers, construction companies, and even consumers who depend on reliable transportation systems.
Industry Voice and Thought Leadership
Finally, his external roles allow Claude Edward Elkins Jr. to serve as a voice for the rail industry in broader discussions. Whether it is about supply chain resilience, environmental responsibility, or technology in transportation, he represents both Norfolk Southern and the larger rail sector. By sharing his insights and experiences, he helps build trust in railroads as an essential part of the economy and shows why leadership with both operational and strategic experience matters in today’s world.
Impact on the Rail Industry
The story of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is not just about his own career—it is also about how he has influenced the rail industry as a whole. His journey from brakeman to executive gives him a perspective that few leaders have, and this has allowed him to shape policies, guide operations, and set new standards in customer service. His impact can be seen in the way railroads connect with industries, support communities, and compete in a fast-changing transportation market.
Strengthening Customer Relationships
One of the biggest contributions of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. has been in building stronger customer relationships. Railroads often face the challenge of being seen as slow or difficult to deal with compared to trucking or air freight. By focusing on reliability, transparency, and customer needs, he has helped make Norfolk Southern a trusted partner for industries such as chemicals, agriculture, and construction. His leadership has shown that listening to customers and solving their problems is just as important as running trains on time. This shift in mindset has encouraged other leaders in the industry to adopt a more customer-focused approach.
Promoting Efficiency and Innovation
Another area where his impact is clear is in efficiency and innovation. Because Claude Edward Elkins Jr. worked at different levels of the railroad, he knows where bottlenecks happen and how to improve them. As an executive, he has supported investments in technology, better logistics planning, and smarter use of rail assets. For example, his work with TTX Company connects directly to the sharing of railcars across multiple companies, which saves money and improves service. These efforts have helped make railroads more competitive in a world where customers expect speed and flexibility.
Encouraging Safety and Responsibility
Safety has always been a central part of the rail industry, and Claude Edward Elkins Jr. has played a role in strengthening this culture. His military background taught him the value of discipline, and his early operational work gave him a clear understanding of the risks faced by crews every day. As a leader, he has continued to emphasize safety standards, training, and accountability. At the same time, he has supported environmental responsibility, recognizing that railroads must also reduce emissions and operate sustainably to stay relevant in the modern economy.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Leaders
Finally, one of his most lasting impacts is the way he inspires new generations of railroad workers and leaders. His story proves that you do not have to start at the top to make it to the top. By working hard, staying adaptable, and focusing on both people and strategy, it is possible to rise from frontline roles to executive leadership. For young professionals in the rail industry, the career of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. serves as a roadmap of what dedication and resilience can achieve.
Personal Life and Values Claude Edward Elkins Jr.
While most people know Claude Edward Elkins Jr. for his professional achievements, his personal life and values also play a big role in shaping the kind of leader he has become. Behind every executive title is a person with experiences, family connections, and core beliefs that guide their choices. For him, the foundation of his values comes from his early life, his education, his time in the military, and his belief in hard work and integrity. These values not only influenced his career but also show how personal character can be just as important as professional skill in leadership.
Early Life and Education
Claude Edward Elkins Jr. grew up in Virginia, where he developed a strong work ethic and a deep respect for community values. His education played an important role in shaping his worldview. He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Business and Economics from Emory & Henry College and later completed an MBA from Old Dominion University. These academic achievements gave him the tools to understand both the financial and human sides of business. His time in college also taught him discipline, analytical thinking, and the value of long-term planning—skills that would later help him balance complex challenges in the rail industry.
Military Service and Personal Discipline
Before joining Norfolk Southern, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. served in the United States Marine Corps. This experience gave him a sense of discipline and responsibility that shaped his entire approach to leadership. The Marines emphasize values like honor, courage, and commitment, and these principles have guided him throughout his professional journey. Military life also prepared him to handle pressure, make quick but thoughtful decisions, and remain focused during difficult situations. These lessons became part of his personal character and continued to influence the way he manages people and makes business choices.
Family and Community Connections
Family has always been an important part of the life of Claude Edward Elkins Jr.. While much of the public information about him focuses on his career, those who know him recognize his strong sense of loyalty to his family and community. Living in Virginia kept him close to his roots, and he has remained connected to the values of honesty, respect, and community service that he grew up with. Leaders who stay grounded in family and community often bring more compassion and balance to their professional lives, and his story reflects that same balance.
Core Values and Guiding Principles
At the heart of everything, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. believes in hard work, adaptability, and integrity. His rise from brakeman to executive would not have been possible without the persistence to learn new skills and the humility to respect every role he took on. Integrity has also been a key part of his values—whether in dealing with employees, customers, or industry partners, he has shown the importance of honesty and fairness. These guiding principles explain why he is respected not only for his business achievements but also for the way he treats people around him.
Lessons from His Career
The career of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is full of lessons that can inspire professionals, students, and future leaders. His journey shows that leadership is not only about titles and power but also about persistence, adaptability, and values. By studying his career path, we can find lessons that apply to many different fields, not just the rail industry. These lessons explain how ordinary beginnings can lead to extraordinary achievements when combined with discipline, education, and the right mindset.
Hard Work Opens Doors
The first lesson from Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s story is the power of hard work. He started as a brakeman, one of the toughest and most physically demanding jobs in the railroad industry. Instead of staying in one role, he worked hard to learn new skills and take on more responsibility. Each step forward came because he proved himself reliable and willing to put in the effort. This shows that even if someone starts at the bottom, consistent hard work can create opportunities to move up.
Education Matters at Every Stage
Another key lesson is the value of education. Even while gaining practical experience, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. invested in his academic growth by earning a degree in business and economics and later an MBA. This mix of practical and academic knowledge gave him an edge in leadership roles. For professionals, this shows that education is not only for the beginning of a career—continued learning at every stage can make a big difference. Whether it is formal study or on-the-job training, knowledge builds confidence and helps leaders make better decisions.
Adaptability is a Strength
His career also highlights the importance of adaptability. Moving from operational jobs into marketing and then into executive leadership required him to learn completely new skills. Many people resist change because it feels uncomfortable, but Claude Edward Elkins Jr. embraced it. This flexibility allowed him to handle different challenges and grow as a leader. The lesson here is that adaptability is not a weakness—it is a strength that makes professionals ready for new opportunities and challenges.
Integrity Builds Long-Term Trust
Perhaps the most important lesson is about integrity. Throughout his career, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. built trust with employees, customers, and industry partners by being fair and honest. Leadership without trust is temporary, but leadership based on integrity lasts. This principle can be applied in any career: treating people with respect and keeping commitments builds a reputation that opens doors to even greater responsibilities.
Legacy and Future Outlook
The journey of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. leaves behind more than just a successful career—it leaves a legacy that can inspire future leaders in the rail industry and beyond. His rise from a brakeman to an executive shows that leadership is not defined by where you start but by how you grow. His story is not only about personal achievement but also about the lasting changes he brought to Norfolk Southern, the rail industry, and the people who worked with him.
A Legacy of Resilience and Growth
One part of his legacy is resilience. Claude Edward Elkins Jr. proved that challenges and hard beginnings do not limit future success. By moving step by step, learning from every role, and accepting new responsibilities, he built a career that stands as an example for anyone who dreams of rising in their profession. His growth also reflects the strength of combining discipline, education, and values—a model that future professionals can look to as they build their own paths.
Influence on the Rail Industry
In the rail industry, his impact will be remembered for connecting operational realities with strategic vision. Because he understood both the frontline jobs and the executive decisions, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. created policies and practices that balanced efficiency with fairness. His leadership helped Norfolk Southern strengthen customer trust, improve operations, and adapt to modern challenges like supply chain disruptions and environmental responsibility. His influence continues through the people he mentored and the systems he helped build.
Inspiration for Future Leaders
Looking to the future, the career of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. will remain an inspiration for the next generation of leaders. His story teaches that success does not always require starting at the top—it can come from patience, adaptability, and integrity. Young professionals can look at his career as proof that dedication and continuous learning are powerful tools for growth. His example encourages future leaders to stay grounded, respect every role, and focus on both people and progress.
Continuing Relevance
Even as the rail industry evolves with new technologies and challenges, the lessons from his career will stay relevant. The balance of discipline, adaptability, and customer focus will always be important for businesses. The legacy of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is not just about his time in office but about the mindset and values he showed—values that can guide future executives, employees, and industries facing change.
Final Summary
The life and career of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. represent a powerful example of resilience, adaptability, and leadership. Starting as a brakeman at Norfolk Southern, he worked his way up through operational, marketing, and executive roles to eventually become Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer. His leadership style, shaped by his military background, academic achievements, and frontline experience, combined both discipline and empathy.
Beyond his company, Claude Edward Elkins Jr. influenced the broader rail industry through his work with organizations like TTX Company and the Railway Industrial Clearance Association. His focus on customer service, safety, and innovation helped Norfolk Southern remain strong in a competitive transportation market. More importantly, his career teaches lasting lessons—hard work, education, adaptability, and integrity—that are valuable to professionals in any field.
His legacy is one of growth, service, and inspiration. For the rail industry and for anyone who dreams of leadership, the story of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. will remain a guiding example of what dedication and values can achieve.