After graduating from Colgate University in 1961, Walton joined the W.M. Dickenson Company as a licensed Insurance Broker and Agent. In 1969, he joined the New Jersey Automobile Dealers Association and in 12 months was named Director of Field Services. He then joined the New Jersey Division of Motor Vehicles as Assistant to the Director in 1972. Six months later he re-joined the New Jersey Automobile Dealers Association as its Business Manager. He was promoted to Executive Vice President in 1979 and in 1981 the title was changed to President. He has worked with legislative and regulatory officials on tax matters, environmental matters, insurance reform, consumer affairs issues, low emission vehicle issues, and vehicle scrappage programs.