Ashley King, Assistant Vice President of Trucking & Rail Integrated Solutions, has been named to Railway Age’s 2024 Women in Rail list, which honors women in the North American rail industry for their outstanding leadership, vision, innovation, and community service.

In her current role, Ashley oversees Norfolk Southern’s Thoroughbred Bulk Transfer Network and Thoroughbred Freight Transfer, helping customers optimize first and final mile solutions in their supply chain. She also leads Triple Crown Services, Norfolk Southern’s wholly owned trucking subsidiary.  

“Ashley’s sincere care for her colleagues and customers makes her an impactful member of our team,” said Ed Elkins, EVP and Chief Marketing Officer. “She’s a tremendous example of Norfolk Southern’s values, which shape the way we operate, make decisions, and interact with one another.”

Over the course of her career, Ashley has held leadership positions in various departments including Industrial Products, Customer Service, Network Planning, and more. These experiences have given Ashley a deep understanding of the value of freight rail transport and how Norfolk Southern serves its customers. Regardless of her title, Ashley focuses on two of her core strengths to advance the rail industry: listening to customers and finding a better way.

For example, Ashley led Norfolk Southern’s development of an innovative box plant solution for a global leader in the paper and packaging industry. Ashley and her team successfully converted flexible freight from dedicated truck shipments to rail. This solution marked Norfolk Southern’s first foray into a full truckload cross-docking solution and is anticipated to reduce the customer’s carbon emissions by 1,935 metric tons over time, delivering beyond the logistical needs of the customer.

A Champion for Others

Throughout her tenure, King has sought to mentor and advocate for early career female employees. As a former management trainee herself, Ashley experienced first-hand the benefits of on-the-job coaching, career mentorship, and leadership development -– and she seeks to help others benefit from the same experience.

“For the past 17 years, I’ve worked alongside exceptional teammates whose daily efforts extend beyond their formal roles, including investing in others' success and looking for a better way for our customers.” said King. “I strive to approach my colleagues and customers with that same attitude.”