Claude Elkins: From Railroad Brakeman to Commercial Visionary

His journey is a modern American epic. It begins not in a boardroom, but on the tracks themselves, as a brakeman for Norfolk Southern. Through decades of grit, strategic thinking, and an unyielding commitment to learning, he ascended to the highest echelons of the company. Today, as Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, he shapes the commercial destiny of a Fortune 500 transportation giant.

But this is more than a corporate success story. Elkins’ influence now extends from the railyard to the forefront of state-level economic policy as the 2025 Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. His story offers profound lessons in leadership, resilience, and the power of a ground-level perspective in a world hungry for authentic, impactful leaders. It reveals how a foundation built on integrity can redefine an entire industry.

Early Foundations: From Appalachia to Executive Excellence

Roots in Southwest Virginia

Deep in the heart of Appalachia, where the rhythm of life is tied to the land and the rumble of passing trains, Claude Elkins’ story begins. Raised in Southwest Virginia, he was immersed in a culture where hard work was the currency of respect. It was a community that valued integrity over pretense. This upbringing instilled in him a profound sense of duty and a grounded perspective that would become the bedrock of his leadership style. The region’s rich railroad heritage was not just a backdrop; it was a part of his DNA.

Military Service & Discipline

Before he stepped onto a single railroad track, Elkins answered a higher call to duty. He served in the United States Marine Corps, an experience that forged his character in the crucible of discipline and unwavering commitment. The Marines taught him how to lead under pressure, to make critical decisions with clarity, and to understand that true strength lies in teamwork. This chapter of his life was not a detour; it was the essential training ground for the executive he would become.

Educational Journey

Elkins’ intellectual curiosity is as impressive as his work ethic. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise, a choice that honed his ability to communicate with precision and think critically—skills that are priceless in the world of business. He later fused this with deep industry knowledge by earning an MBA from Old Dominion University, specializing in Port and Maritime Economics. This powerful combination of humanities and business acumen demonstrates his lifelong commitment to learning and self-improvement.

The Remarkable Rise: From Brakeman to Executive

Ground-Level Beginnings (1988)

In 1988, Claude Elkins’ career at Norfolk Southern began where the steel meets the stone. As a Road Brakeman, he performed one of the most physically demanding jobs in the industry. This was no corner office. It was a world of coupling cars, inspecting equipment, and ensuring the safe movement of massive freight trains. This hands-on experience gave him an unparalleled, ground-level understanding of the railroad’s intricate mechanics—an education that can’t be taught in a classroom.

Operational Progression (1988-2000s)

Elkins’ dedication and competence did not go unnoticed. He steadily climbed the operational ladder, serving as a Conductor, Locomotive Engineer, and Relief Yardmaster. For two decades, he was deeply involved in Intermodal Marketing, learning the core business from the inside out. This long apprenticeship in the heart of railroad operations provided him with a unique and authentic perspective that would later distinguish him as an executive. He didn’t just manage the business; he had lived it.

Transition to Commercial Leadership (2000s-2016)

The mid-2000s marked a pivotal turning point in Elkins’ career. He transitioned from the operational side to the commercial and strategic heart of the company. Combining his deep technical knowledge with a sharp business mind, he took on leadership roles in marketing. By 2016, he was appointed Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing, a role that demonstrated his ability to lead complex, high-stakes business units and drive growth in competitive markets.

Executive Ascension (2016-Present)

His ascent continued at a rapid pace. In 2018, he was named Vice President of Industrial Products. Just three years later, in 2021, he reached the executive suite as Executive Vice President & Chief Commercial Officer. In this powerful role, he now directs the commercial strategy for Norfolk Southern’s most critical divisions, including Intermodal, Automotive, and Industrial Products, while also overseeing Real Estate and Industrial Development. His journey from brakeman to the C-suite was complete.

Commercial Strategy & Industry Impact

Norfolk Southern’s Commercial Divisions Under Elkins

As Chief Commercial Officer, Claude Elkins is the architect of Norfolk Southern’s growth engine. He doesn’t just manage business units; he shapes markets. Under his leadership, the Intermodal division has become a model of efficiency, seamlessly connecting trucks and trains to optimize the supply chain. In the highly competitive Automotive sector, his strategic vision ensures that millions of vehicles reach their destinations with precision and reliability. His oversight of Industrial Products and Real Estate fuels economic development across the nation.

Operational Efficiency & Innovation

Elkins’ operational roots give him a powerful edge in driving innovation. He champions the adoption of cutting-edge technologies that enhance safety, boost efficiency, and provide customers with unprecedented visibility into their shipments. He understands that in the modern logistics landscape, data is just as important as steel. His focus on digital transformation is not just about modernizing the railroad; it’s about future-proofing it for the challenges of the 21st century.

Market Leadership & Competitive Positioning

Under Elkins’ commercial leadership, Norfolk Southern has solidified its position as a dominant force in the transportation industry. His customer-centric approach has forged strategic partnerships with some of the world’s largest companies, who rely on his team’s expertise to navigate complex supply chain challenges. While specific revenue figures are part of a larger corporate picture, the sustained growth and market share in key segments under his tenure speak volumes about his impact.

Industry Recognition

The respect Elkins commands extends far beyond the walls of Norfolk Southern. He is a recognized thought leader in the railroad industry, frequently sought after for his insights on logistics, innovation, and leadership. His numerous accolades and features in industry publications are a testament to his influence. But perhaps the greatest recognition comes from his peers, who see him as a leader of integrity and vision, shaping the future of transportation.

Leadership Philosophy & Management Style

A Hands-On Leadership Approach

Claude Elkins leads from the front, not from an ivory tower. His years on the tracks gave him a rare and invaluable gift: empathy. He understands the challenges faced by frontline employees because he has walked in their boots. This ground-level perspective informs every decision he makes, ensuring that strategies are not only ambitious but also practical and executable. His open-door policy is more than a gesture; it is a core component of his leadership, fostering a culture of trust and mutual respect.

A Customer-Centric Focus

For Elkins, the customer is the true north of his compass. He has built his career on forging lasting relationships, moving beyond transactional interactions to become a true strategic partner. He invests time in understanding his customers’ businesses, their pain points, and their goals. This deep understanding allows his team to deliver not just transportation services, but tailored solutions that create real value. Reliability and service excellence are the cornerstones of his commercial philosophy.

Core Leadership Values

Integrity. Accountability. Adaptability. These are not just words to Elkins; they are the pillars of his leadership. He believes in doing the right thing, even when it’s hard. He empowers his teams to take ownership and be accountable for their results. In an industry defined by constant change, he champions adaptability and resilience, encouraging his organization to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. He fosters a collaborative environment where teamwork and innovation thrive.

Mentorship & Talent Development

A true leader builds more leaders. Elkins is deeply committed to mentoring the next generation of railroad professionals. He understands that the future of Norfolk Southern depends on the talent it cultivates today. He actively participates in career development programs, sharing his knowledge and experience to help aspiring leaders navigate their own journeys. His approach to succession planning is not just about filling roles; it’s about building a sustainable legacy of leadership.

Georgia Chamber & Community Leadership

Leading Georgia’s business future: The Georgia Chamber of Commerce under Elkins’ 2025 chairmanship

2025 Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce

In January 2025, Claude Elkins stepped onto a new stage, assuming the role of Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce. This is not a ceremonial title. It is a position of immense influence, placing him at the helm of one of the most powerful business advocacy groups in the nation. His appointment is a testament to the respect he commands across the business community. As Chair, he is now tasked with steering Georgia’s economic future, championing policies that foster growth, innovation, and opportunity for all.

Georgia Chamber’s Mission & Impact

The Georgia Chamber is a powerful force for progress. It represents businesses of all sizes, from local startups to global corporations. Under Elkins’ leadership, the Chamber will continue its vital work of advocating for a pro-business environment, driving economic development, and investing in the state’s workforce. His vision for the Chamber is one of collaboration, bringing together business leaders, government officials, and community stakeholders to tackle Georgia’s most pressing challenges and seize its greatest opportunities.

East Lake Foundation Board Service

Elkins’ commitment to community extends deep into the heart of Atlanta. He serves on the Board of Directors for the East Lake Foundation, a pioneering organization dedicated to breaking the cycle of poverty through holistic community revitalization. The Foundation’s work in providing cradle-to-college education, mixed-income housing, and community wellness programs has transformed the East Lake neighborhood into a national model for urban renewal. His involvement reflects a deep-seated belief in using his platform to create equitable opportunities for all.

Broader Community Engagement

His influence is felt across numerous organizations. Elkins serves on the board of the National Association of Manufacturers, shaping policy on a national level. He is a board member of TTX Company, a leading provider of railcars. He also contributes his expertise to the Georgia State University Marketing RoundTable and The Conference Board’s Council for CMOs, demonstrating a multifaceted commitment to industry, education, and community.

Sustainability & ESG Leadership

Environmental Responsibility

Claude Elkins understands that the future of transportation must be sustainable. He is a vocal advocate for the environmental advantages of rail, which can move one ton of freight more than 470 miles on a single gallon of fuel. Under his leadership, Norfolk Southern is actively pursuing initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, invest in cleaner technologies, and promote climate-resilient infrastructure. He sees environmental stewardship not as a cost, but as a core business imperative that drives long-term value for the company and society.

Social Equity & Community Development

Elkins’ commitment to social responsibility is woven into the fabric of his leadership. His work with the East Lake Foundation is a powerful example of his dedication to creating equitable access to opportunities. He believes that corporations have a vital role to play in supporting the communities they serve. This extends to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce within Norfolk Southern, investing in education and workforce development programs, and ensuring that economic growth is shared by all.

Corporate Governance & Ethics

For Elkins, how you do business is just as important as the business you do. He is a champion of strong corporate governance, transparency, and ethical conduct. He believes that building trust with employees, customers, investors, and the public is the foundation of sustainable success. His leadership is guided by a commitment to accountability and creating long-term stakeholder value, ensuring that Norfolk Southern not only performs well, but also operates with the highest degree of integrity.

Vision for the Future

The Future of Rail Transportation

Claude Elkins is not just managing the present; he is building the future. He envisions a rail industry that is smarter, faster, and more integrated than ever before. He sees technology and automation not as threats, but as powerful tools to enhance safety, improve service, and unlock new efficiencies. He is keenly aware of evolving customer expectations and is positioning Norfolk Southern to meet the demands of a digital-first world, where supply chain visibility and real-time data are paramount.

Innovation & Digital Transformation

Under his guidance, Norfolk Southern is making significant investments in its technological infrastructure. This includes everything from advanced data analytics to predict maintenance needs, to customer-facing platforms that provide seamless digital experiences. Elkins is driving a culture of innovation, encouraging his teams to challenge the status quo and find new and better ways to serve customers. He understands that the railroad of the future will be a technology company as much as a transportation company.

Workforce Development & Talent

Attracting and retaining top talent is a key strategic priority for Elkins. He is passionate about building the next generation of railroad professionals, showcasing the industry as a dynamic and rewarding place to build a career. This involves creating clear career pathways, investing in robust training and skill development programs, and fostering a culture of continuous learning. He is working to change the perception of the railroad industry, highlighting its vital role in the modern economy and its commitment to innovation.

Long-Term Strategic Priorities

Looking ahead, Elkins is focused on several key priorities. These include exploring new market expansion opportunities, relentlessly pursuing operational excellence, and deepening the company’s commitment to sustainability and ESG goals. At the heart of it all is a focus on creating long-term value for all stakeholders—customers, employees, investors, and the communities Norfolk Southern serves. His vision is one of sustainable, profitable growth, driven by innovation and guided by integrity.

Lessons & Inspiration for Future Leaders

Key Takeaways from Elkins’ Journey

Claude Elkins’ career offers a powerful blueprint for success in any field. The first lesson is the immense value of starting from the ground up. His deep operational knowledge, gained as a brakeman and engineer, gave him credibility and insight that few executives possess. The second is the non-negotiable importance of continuous learning. His pursuit of both an English degree and an MBA demonstrates a commitment to developing both soft and hard skills. Finally, his story is a masterclass in resilience and adaptability, showing that a career path is not always linear.

Relevance to Modern Business

In an age of disruption, Elkins’ leadership is more relevant than ever. He demonstrates how to lead a traditional, asset-heavy industry into the future by balancing innovation with operational excellence. His career proves that corporate responsibility and community engagement are not just add-ons, but core components of a successful business strategy. He embodies the modern executive who can speak the language of both the railyard and the boardroom, a rare and powerful combination.

Inspiration for Aspiring Leaders

For anyone aspiring to a leadership role, Elkins’ journey is a source of profound inspiration. It proves that your starting point does not determine your destination. It highlights the power of diverse experiences, from the military to the marketing department. Most importantly, it shows that authentic leadership—built on a foundation of integrity, empathy, and hard-won experience—is the most effective and enduring kind. His legacy is a reminder that you can make a meaningful impact on both an industry and a community.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who is Claude Edward Elkins Jr.?

Claude Edward Elkins Jr., known as Ed Elkins, is the Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Norfolk Southern. He is a respected railroad executive with over 35 years of experience, having risen from a brakeman to a top leader in the company. He is also the 2025 Chair of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce.

2. What is Claude Elkins’ current position at Norfolk Southern?

As Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Elkins leads Norfolk Southern’s entire commercial strategy. This includes overseeing the Intermodal, Automotive, and Industrial Products divisions, as well as managing Real Estate, Industrial Development, and Customer Logistics.

3. How did Claude Elkins start his career at Norfolk Southern?

Elkins began his career in 1988 in a ground-level role as a Road Brakeman. This foundational experience in railroad operations gave him a unique, hands-on perspective that has been instrumental to his success as an executive leader.

4. What is Claude Elkins’ educational background?

Elkins holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Old Dominion University, with a focus on Port and Maritime Economics.

5. What are Claude Elkins’ main responsibilities as Chief Commercial Officer?

His responsibilities include driving growth across all commercial divisions, developing and executing market strategy, fostering innovation in logistics, building strategic customer partnerships, and ensuring the overall profitability and efficiency of Norfolk Southern’s commercial operations.

6. What is Claude Elkins’ role as 2025 Chair of the Georgia Chamber?

As the 2025 Chair, Elkins leads Georgia’s most influential business advocacy organization. His role involves setting strategic priorities, collaborating with state leaders to foster a pro-business environment, and driving initiatives that support economic growth and community development across Georgia.

7. What community organizations is Claude Elkins involved with?

Beyond the Georgia Chamber, Elkins serves on the Board of Directors for the East Lake Foundation, the National Association of Manufacturers, and TTX Company. He is also active with the Georgia State University Marketing RoundTable and The Conference Board.

8. How has Claude Elkins influenced the railroad industry?

Elkins has been a key figure in driving innovation, efficiency, and sustainability in the railroad industry. He has championed the adoption of new technologies, promoted customer-centric service models, and advocated for the environmental benefits of rail transport, leaving a significant mark on modern logistics.

9. What is Claude Elkins’ leadership philosophy?

His leadership philosophy is built on a foundation of integrity, accountability, and a hands-on approach. He values his ground-level experience, which allows him to lead with empathy and a deep understanding of the business. He fosters a culture of collaboration, continuous learning, and customer focus.

10. What is the future outlook for rail transportation under Elkins’ leadership?

Under his leadership, the outlook is focused on innovation, sustainability, and growth. He is steering Norfolk Southern toward a future that embraces digital transformation, enhances supply chain efficiency, develops the next generation of talent, and solidifies rail as the backbone of a modern, sustainable economy.