In the vast history of American railroads, there are stories that remind us of perseverance, discipline, and the power of rising through dedication. One such story is that of Claude Edward Elkins Jr., a man who began his career in the late 1980s as a brakeman and went on to become an influential leader at Norfolk Southern, one of the largest freight rail networks in the United States. His journey is not just about personal ambition but about embodying values that the railroad industry has long respected—hard work, responsibility, and resilience.
Elkins’s career also reflects the changing face of American industry. At a time when many professionals look for shortcuts, his life demonstrates that true leadership is built step by step, through years of experience, learning, and determination. From his early service in the United States Marine Corps to his decades-long career in railroads, he has shaped a story that inspires professionals across industries.
Early Life and Military Foundations
Claude Edward Elkins Jr. grew up with a strong sense of duty and discipline. Choosing to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps was not just a career move; it was a decision that reflected his character. The Marines shaped his personality with qualities that would later prove invaluable in the demanding world of transportation. Discipline, resilience, and teamwork became second nature to him.
During his time in the Marines, Elkins learned how to lead under pressure, how to remain calm in unpredictable circumstances, and how to focus on the mission above personal comfort. These lessons were not abstract ideals—they were habits that he carried into every stage of his professional life. The Marine Corps became the foundation on which he built his future success.
Entering the Railroad Industry
After his military service, Elkins joined Norfolk Southern in 1988, beginning as a brakeman. At the time, few could have predicted that this role would mark the start of an extraordinary career. The position of brakeman was physically demanding and required immense attention to safety. It gave Elkins an intimate understanding of the realities of railroad work—the noise, the long hours, and the teamwork required to keep trains running smoothly.
Unlike many executives who start in offices, Elkins began where the steel met the tracks. This experience gave him a perspective that would later define his leadership style. He knew what it meant to work in extreme conditions, to handle pressure, and to collaborate with colleagues in roles that were often overlooked but essential to the functioning of the railroad.
Over time, he advanced to roles such as conductor, yardmaster, and trainmaster. Each step brought new challenges and deeper knowledge. By the time he moved into management, he had already lived the life of those he would one day lead. This authenticity gave him credibility among his peers and subordinates alike.
Rising Through the Ranks
Elkins’s career at Norfolk Southern was not built overnight. After mastering the operational side of the business, he gradually shifted into leadership and marketing roles. He began to understand not just the mechanics of running trains but the broader picture of how a massive rail network serves customers, drives profits, and competes with other modes of transportation.
His transition from the field to the boardroom was marked by an ability to communicate effectively with both workers on the ground and decision-makers at the highest level. He spoke the language of the railroad, but he also mastered the vocabulary of strategy, growth, and innovation. This combination made him stand out as a leader who could bridge the gap between operations and management.
By the time he reached the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, Elkins had developed a reputation for being not only results-driven but also grounded and approachable. His career became a symbol of what persistence and lifelong learning can achieve.
Contributions to Norfolk Southern
In his senior leadership role, Elkins became instrumental in shaping Norfolk Southern’s future. The railroad industry is one of America’s oldest yet constantly evolving sectors. Companies like Norfolk Southern are expected to deliver efficiency while also meeting modern demands for sustainability and technological advancement.
Elkins focused on aligning the company’s services with the needs of customers, ensuring that Norfolk Southern remained competitive in a crowded market. He supported modernization efforts that improved operational performance, invested in systems that reduced delays, and encouraged a culture of safety and accountability.
Leadership Philosophy
What makes Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s story particularly inspiring is not just the positions he has held but the values he brings to leadership. Having once stood in the shoes of brakemen and conductors, he understands the challenges faced by front-line workers. This background allows him to lead with empathy, respect, and credibility.
Elkins believes in discipline, a trait refined during his time in the Marines. He applies this to business decisions by maintaining focus on goals and demanding accountability while still valuing collaboration. His leadership style combines operational wisdom with a vision for long-term growth, a balance that many leaders struggle to achieve.
He also emphasizes continuous learning. His career shows that advancement is not about shortcuts but about being open to new knowledge, adapting to changing circumstances, and growing with every opportunity.
The Broader Context: Railroads in the Modern Era
To fully appreciate Elkins’s contribution, one must also understand the railroad industry he has helped shape. Railroads remain one of the most efficient forms of land transportation, moving goods across vast distances at lower costs and with greater environmental benefits compared to trucking or air freight. Yet, the industry faces increasing competition, regulatory pressure, and the need for sustainable practices.
Executives like Elkins are tasked with balancing tradition and innovation. They must honor the legacy of railroads while embracing technologies such as automated systems, predictive analytics, and greener locomotives. Elkins’s background, which combines operational grit with strategic foresight, makes him particularly well-suited to this challenge.
Inspiration for Future Leaders
The journey of Claude Edward Elkins Jr. is not only about railroads; it is about the universal path of growth and achievement. His story resonates with anyone who begins their career in an entry-level position and dreams of someday reaching the top.
His rise from brakeman to executive demonstrates that leadership is earned, not given. It is built through patience, consistency, and the ability to adapt. For young professionals, his career serves as a reminder that no experience is wasted—every job, no matter how small, contributes to the skills and perspective required for greater responsibilities.
Conclusion
Claude Edward Elkins Jr.’s life and career form a narrative of determination, discipline, and progress. From serving in the Marine Corps to working as a brakeman and eventually becoming an executive leader at Norfolk Southern, his path reflects the values that define true leadership.
His journey teaches us that the most powerful executives are often those who never forget their roots, who understand the struggles of the people they lead, and who commit to learning and growing at every stage of life.
For Norfolk Southern, his contributions have strengthened the company’s position in an ever-changing industry. For professionals across fields, his story is a source of inspiration—proof that success is not about shortcuts but about walking the long road with integrity and vision.
