Claude Edward Elkins Jr. (often called Ed Elkins) is a senior railroad executive known for his integrity and dedication. He serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern, a major U.S. freight railroad. In a career spanning more than 35 years at Norfolk Southern, Elkins has built a reputation for honesty, hard work, and respect for others. Colleagues describe him as “calm and approachable,” noting his humility and service-minded style. Even outside work, he maintains a deep commitment to community, as noted by the East Lake Foundation in Atlanta.

Early Life and Education

Claude Edward Elkins Jr. grew up in the Appalachian region of southwest Virginia. He earned a bachelor’s degree in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and later an MBA focused on port and maritime economics. Before his railroad career, Elkins served in the U.S. Marine Corps. That experience instilled discipline and a strong work ethic which he carried into civilian life. Together, his education and Marine service gave him a foundation of integrity, respect, and determination – values common in his Virginia community – that would shape his future leadership.

A Career on the Rails: Rising Through the Ranks

Elkins joined Norfolk Southern in 1988 as a road brakeman, one of the toughest frontline jobs in railroading. As a brakeman he helped couple train cars and perform safety checks, learning railroad operations from the ground up. Over time he moved into more senior roles, handling everything from crew leadership to sales and marketing. His steady rise reflects his commitment and skill:

• 1988: Hired as a Road Brakeman at Norfolk Southern.

• 1990s–2000s: Promoted through conductor, locomotive engineer, and relief yardmaster roles, gaining hands-on experience in train operations.

• 2016: Named Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing, overseeing the transportation of plastics, fertilizers and chemicals.

• 2018: Promoted to Vice President of Industrial Products, managing metals, construction materials, and other goods.

• 2021: Appointed Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of Norfolk Southern, a top executive position.

Today Elkins leads Norfolk Southern’s Intermodal, Automotive, and Industrial Products business divisions, along with several support groups (real estate, short lines, field sales, etc.). His 35-plus years with one company show extraordinary commitment – he learned every part of the business and earned the trust to guide major segments of the railroad.

Leadership and Values

Throughout his career, Elkins has emphasized core values in his work. He “leads through humility and discipline” – traits he attributes to his Appalachian upbringing and Marine background. In practice this means he always puts safety and integrity first, and treats coworkers with genuine respect. For example, even as an executive he remains down-to-earth: colleagues say he is calm and approachable because he truly understands the challenges of railroad crews (he once did their jobs). He keeps commitments and stays honest, which builds trust with employees and customers alike. In short, Elkins’ character shines through in everything he does. His life shows that integrity, respect and responsibility aren’t just buzzwords – they are the foundation of effective leadership on the railroad and beyond.

• Integrity and Safety: Elkins is known for doing the right thing and putting worker safety first. He makes decisions with honesty and cares deeply about protecting employees and communities.

• Humility and Respect: Despite his high rank, he stays grounded. Colleagues describe him as “dependable” and devoted to service, never above listening to frontline workers. He treats every person with dignity, reflecting the promise-keeping values he learned early on.

• Continuous Learning: He pairs on-the-job experience with formal education. By working in every department, Elkins learned the railroad business inside out. He continues to study and adapt, believing that leaders must keep learning as the industry evolves.

Commitment to Community and Service

Elkins’ commitment extends well beyond Norfolk Southern’s tracks. He has taken on leadership roles to give back to others. For example, he serves as Vice Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce and sits on boards of organizations like the East Lake Foundation, the National Association of Manufacturers, and TTX Company. These groups focus on community development, education, and industry improvement. When the East Lake Foundation (an Atlanta nonprofit) announced Elkins joining its board, they specifically praised his “wealth of experience and deep commitment to community and sustainability”.

In his own words, Elkins said he was “honored to join” the East Lake board and eager to contribute to the “continued growth and success of the vibrant East Lake community”. This shows that he truly lives the principle of community service. Whether mentoring younger employees or supporting local education and housing programs, he applies the same dedication to people outside work as he does inside the company. In short, Elkins demonstrates that community responsibility is part of being a good leader.

Legacy and Inspiration

Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s story offers clear lessons for anyone, in railroading or any field. He proves that true success comes from character as much as skill. By rising from a brakeman to an executive through hard work, education, and treating people right, he embodies the legacy of character and commitment. He shows that understanding your work from the ground up builds strength; as one profile notes, “understanding your industry from the ground up creates the strongest leaders”.

Inspiring others is part of his legacy. Younger railroad workers can see in Elkins a role model: someone who never forgot his roots and who succeeded by helping others. His focus on safe, efficient service and his continued emphasis on learning and service prove that business goals and community care can go hand in hand. Today, Elkins’s career is a living example that honor, discipline and empathy make a leader who leaves a positive mark on people and the industry.

Conclusion

Claude Edward Elkins Jr. rose through decades of challenges by staying true to his values, and he has poured his experience back into his community. His life demonstrates that when a leader is principled, hardworking, and outward-looking, the resulting legacy is far greater than any title – it’s a better future for everyone around him.