Norfolk Southern EVP and Chief Marketing Officer Ed Elkins presents to an audience of maritime industry leaders during VMA24.

At the 2024 Virginia Maritime Association International Trade Symposium (VMA24), Norfolk Southern’s EVP & Chief Marketing Officer, Ed Elkins, addressed the broader macroeconomic trends shaping global trade and the pivotal role rail plays in supply chain resilience. In a fireside chat with Stephen Edwards, CEO and Executive Director of the Port of Virginia, they discussed how strategic investments in infrastructure, sustainability, and collaboration between rail and ports are transforming the logistics landscape.

Elkins emphasized that Norfolk Southern’s focus on building customer trust through reliable service, innovative solutions, and sustainable practices is critical in today’s evolving market. Edwards echoed this, highlighting how the Port of Virginia’s $1.4 billion modernization plan, including the Central Rail Yard (CRY) expansion and upcoming 55-foot-deep shipping channel, is positioning the port as a top-tier global trade hub. These enhancements, along with Norfolk Southern’s investments in rail infrastructure, ensure shippers have the agility and capacity needed to navigate unpredictable global demand.

Key trends discussed included the increasing importance of sustainability in supply chains and the role of rail in reducing emissions. Both Norfolk Southern and the Port of Virginia are at the forefront of these efforts, leveraging clean energy transitions and technologies to drive operational efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Key Takeaways:

• The Port of Virginia has completed 19 significant infrastructure projects in 2024, increasing its capacity by 455,000 TEUs annually.
• The port is on track to become the deepest on the U.S. East Coast by 2025, positioning it for the largest container vessels.
• Norfolk Southern’s rail network helps provides vital connectivity to inland and Midwest markets, offering shippers the ability to reach 75% of the U.S. population within two days.
• Sustainability is central to both Norfolk Southern’s and the Port of Virginia’s strategies, with Norfolk Southern streamlining operations to reduce supply chain emissions and the Port of Virginia operating on 100% clean electricity since January 2024.

Elkins concluded by reaffirming Norfolk Southern’s commitment to building resilient, future-proof supply chains. He highlighted that while market volatility remains a constant, the combined power of rail and port infrastructure will remain crucial to navigating macroeconomic shifts and supporting our mutual customers’ long-term growth.

Norfolk Southern Group Vice President International Intermodal Marketing and Sales Alexander Luc participated in an industry panel at VMA24.