Her Story
About Michelle
Michelle Walton serves as the Program Director for Child Protective Investigations in the northwest, northeast side of Texas that borders on the Arkansas line, covering 11 counties with 6 investigation units. She has been in this role for nearly two years and brings 23 years of experience in the field, having progressed through positions as a caseworker for about 2 years, master investigator on a statewide task force formed to reduce case backlogs, supervisor for about 10 years, foster parent trainer for 2 to 3 years, and program specialist for two regions covering 36 counties along the east side of Texas. Walton earned her undergraduate degree in early childhood from Texas A&M at Texarkana after starting at Grambling State University and completed her master's degree in human services at Walden University. Her main areas of expertise include investigations, policy and procedure, and training workers. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated and is active in her church, running the outreach ministry that serves food at a local shelter once a month. Walton credits her supportive family, including her husband and children, for her success throughout her career journey.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Michelle
01What do you attribute your success to?
My family, my husband, and my children have been very supportive. When I first started as a caseworker, investigator in the field, I would be out 23 hours a day, come home, take a nap, and go right back at it. They've been so supportive to me all through this journey.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
It's hard, but don't give up. Make sure you're doing it for the right reason, because the paycheck is not the reason. By no means is the paycheck the reason. Make sure that your heart is in it, and don't give up. It's hard, it's hard, hard, and the days are hard and long, but don't give up. Keep trying to reach those families so you can make a difference.
03What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenges: Resources, mental health is very prevalent... we just don't have the resources in the state of Texas to address mental health. Opportunities: It's a growing field... room for growth... development of programs... Rainbow Room... provide for the needs of families.
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