Have you ever wondered what it takes to go from working on the train tracks to leading one of the biggest railroad companies in America? It sounds like a movie plot, right? But for Claude Edward Elkins Jr, this was his real life. He is a man who truly knows what hard work looks like.
Claude Edward Elkins Jr spent over 30 years building a career that many people admire. He didn’t just start at the top. He started at the bottom and learned everything he could. Because he worked so hard, he became a top leader at Norfolk Southern. In this article, we will look at his early days, his time in the military, and how he changed the world of transportation forever.
Who is Claude Edward Elkins Jr?
To understand the man, we have to look at where he came from. Claude Edward Elkins Jr was born in the beautiful Appalachian region of Virginia. This area is famous for its mountains and its long history with trains. Growing up here, he likely saw trains every day. Those big machines probably sparked a fire in his heart.
He wasn’t just a “train guy,” though. He was also a student of the world. He went to the University of Virginia’s College at Wise and studied English. You might think an English degree is strange for a railroad boss, but it helped him become a great communicator. Later, Claude Edward Elkins Jr earned an MBA from Old Dominion University. He never stopped learning, which is a big secret to his success.
Serving in the Marine Corps
Before he ever stepped onto a train as an employee, Claude Edward Elkins Jr served his country. He joined the United States Marine Corps. This is where he learned about discipline and leadership. The Marines are known for being “The Few and the Proud.”
During his time in the service, Claude Edward Elkins Jr learned how to stay calm under pressure. He learned that a team is only as strong as its weakest member. These lessons stayed with him for his entire life. When you look at how he leads people today, you can see that “Marine spirit” in everything he does. He values loyalty and getting the job done right.
Starting from the Ground Up
In 1988, Claude Edward Elkins Jr got his start at Norfolk Southern. He didn’t start in a fancy office with a view. He started as a Road Brakeman. This is a tough, physical job. He was out there in the rain, snow, and heat. He saw how the trains worked from the inside out.
Because Claude Edward Elkins Jr was so dedicated, he moved up quickly. He became a Conductor and then a Locomotive Engineer. This means he actually drove the giant trains! By doing these jobs, he earned the respect of every worker on the tracks. They knew he wasn’t just a boss who read books; he was a man who had done the work himself.
Moving into Management
After years of working in the “Operations” side of things, Claude Edward Elkins Jr moved into the business side. He spent about twenty years working in Intermodal Marketing. “Intermodal” is just a fancy word for moving goods using different types of transport, like trucks and trains together.
Claude Edward Elkins Jr was great at this because he understood both the machines and the customers. He knew how to make sure things got where they needed to go on time. His ability to solve complex problems made him stand out to the top bosses. He wasn’t just moving freight; he was moving the entire company forward.
A Leader in Chemicals and Industry
By 2016, the company gave him a huge responsibility. Claude Edward Elkins Jr was named the Group Vice President of Chemicals Marketing. This was a big deal because moving chemicals safely is very important for the environment and the public.
He did such a good job that he was promoted again in 2018. This time, Claude Edward Elkins Jr became the Vice President of Industrial Products. He was now in charge of a massive part of the business. He helped Norfolk Southern connect with more customers and grow their profits. He proved that a kid from Virginia could lead a national industry.
Becoming the Chief Marketing Officer
In 2021, Claude Edward Elkins Jr reached a massive milestone. He was named the Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). This is one of the highest jobs you can have in a company. As CMO, he oversees almost everything that has to do with customers and sales.
Under the leadership of Claude Edward Elkins Jr, the company has focused on being more modern. He wants to use technology to make trains faster and safer. He also cares a lot about the planet. He knows that trains are better for the environment than thousands of trucks on the road. His vision is helping Norfolk Southern stay strong in a changing world.
The Value of Education and Training
Even though he was already a successful boss, Claude Edward Elkins Jr never stopped being a student. He didn’t just stop with his MBA. He went to some of the best schools in the world for extra training. He holds certificates from Harvard Business School and the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.
This shows us that Claude Edward Elkins Jr believes in self-improvement. He knows that the world changes fast, and you have to keep your skills sharp. By attending these programs, he stayed at the top of his game. He teaches us that no matter how high you climb, you should always keep an open mind.
Community and Board Memberships
Claude Edward Elkins Jr is not just busy at his office. He also gives back to the industry. He serves on the board of directors for the National Association of Manufacturers. This group helps make sure that American building and manufacturing stay strong.
He is also part of the TTX Company board and the Georgia State University Marketing RoundTable. Being part of these groups allows Claude Edward Elkins Jr to share his wisdom with others. He isn’t just focused on his own success; he wants the whole industry to do well. This is the mark of a true leader who cares about the future.
Personal Philosophy and Leadership Style
If you asked people who work with Claude Edward Elkins Jr, they would tell you he is a “people person.” He leads with empathy. Because he was once a brakeman, he knows what his employees are going through. He listens to their ideas and treats everyone with respect.
His leadership style is a mix of Marine discipline and southern kindness. Claude Edward Elkins Jr believes that if you take care of your people, they will take care of the business. This “people-first” approach is why so many people at Norfolk Southern look up to him. He is a great example of how to lead with both your head and your heart.
The Legacy of Claude Edward Elkins Jr
What will people remember most about Claude Edward Elkins Jr? They will likely remember his journey. He showed that it doesn’t matter where you start. What matters is how much effort you put in and how you treat others.
He has helped modernize the American railroad. He has made it safer, greener, and more efficient. For Claude Edward Elkins Jr, the railroad isn’t just about tracks and steel. It’s about connecting people and moving the economy. His legacy is one of hard work, continuous learning, and a deep love for his profession.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is Claude Edward Elkins Jr’s current job? He is the Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer at Norfolk Southern Corporation. He has been in this top role since 2021.
- Did Claude Edward Elkins Jr serve in the military? Yes, he was a member of the United States Marine Corps. This experience helped him develop strong leadership skills.
- Where did Claude Edward Elkins Jr go to college? He earned his bachelor’s degree from UVA Wise and his MBA from Old Dominion University. He also studied at Harvard.
- How long has Claude Edward Elkins Jr worked in the railroad industry? He started his career in 1988 as a Road Brakeman. This means he has been in the industry for over 35 years!
- What is “Intermodal Marketing” which he worked in? It is a way of moving freight using multiple modes of transportation, like combining trains and trucks to get goods to their destination.
- Where was Claude Edward Elkins Jr born? He is a native of southwestern Virginia, in the heart of the Appalachian region.
Conclusion: A Journey Worth Following
The story of Claude Edward Elkins Jr is a powerful reminder that the “American Dream” is still alive. By starting as a brakeman and climbing to the executive suite, he proved that experience is the best teacher. He combined his military discipline with a love for learning to become a giant in the transportation world.
Today, Claude Edward Elkins Jr continues to lead with integrity. Whether he is in a board room or visiting a rail yard, he stays true to his roots. We can all learn something from his dedication. If you are looking for inspiration for your own career, just look at the tracks laid by this incredible leader.
