Dr. Atkinson started his career in the candy industry assisting in selling candy in the 1930’s at the age of seven, helping his father sell candy from his truck. He worked part-time while in school helping his father build Atkinson Candy Co. - founded in 1932 - in Lufkin, Texas, and continues to be involved in the company today with other members of his family. Judson-Atkinson Candy Co. currently has 110 employees in San Antonio and Atkinson Candy Co. in Lufkin has approximately the same number.