Steve Watkins

Chief Digital and Technology Officer

Steve Watkins assumed the role of Chief Digital and Technology Officer at CSX in May 2026. He is responsible for leading CSX’s technology strategy development and supporting business growth through innovative digital solutions, as well as overseeing all aspects of the company’s information technology systems.

Prior to this appointment, Watkins served as Vice President of Product Management for Rail Operations, leading operations technology product development from planning to execution. The products delivered under his guidance were essential to CSX railroad operations, from dispatching and network monitoring to terminal operations and locomotive management.

Watkins previously served 12 years as Head of Railroad Operations Application Development at CSX. In this role he was responsible for overseeing the development, implementation and sustainment of information technology applications that support the safe and efficient operation of the railroad.

Watkins began his career at CSX in 1997, bringing with him valuable experience as a technology project manager at Proctor & Gamble. At CSX, he has risen through the ranks, holding various management positions of increasing responsibility. These include Director of Financial Planning and Analysis, Director of Performance Analysis, Director of Commercial and General & Administrative Applications, Assistant Vice President of Rail Applications, Assistant Vice President of Rail Applications and Modernization, and Assistant Vice President of Operations Applications.

Watkins participated in the 2024 World50 Next Leader Program and in 2022, he participated in an executive development cohort. Beyond his professional roles, Watkins serves on the board of the American Lung Association of the Southeast. He holds a Master of Business Administration and a bachelor’s degree in computer science, both from the University of Florida.

 

CSX Management Team