Tim Walton is the Founder and President of Walton External Affairs, dedicated to delivering high-quality service while strategically focusing on government, business, and industry relations. With extensive experience in external affairs and public policy, he brings a wealth of knowledge to Capitol Affiliates. 

Prior to founding Walton External Affairs in 2016, Tim served as the Director of External Affairs & Public Policy for CIANBRO, a 100% employee-owned construction firm. In this role, he effectively managed the company's political, regulatory, and governmental affairs, as well as its charitable and political budgets. Tim has also held various volunteer leadership positions with numerous professional associations, demonstrating his commitment to the industry. His accolades include being honored by Associated Builders & Contractors for his service to the construction industry and receiving the prestigious Flaming Arrow Award twice. 

Peter Connell is an accomplished leader in government relations with extensive experience in advocacy, policy analysis, and strategic guidance. He has served as the Director of Government Affairs and Maine Real Estate for Ocean Properties, one of the largest hotel and resort operating groups in the country. Additionally, he founded the Imagine Corporation in 1983, which specializes in real estate housing development services, consulting, and advocacy representation. His entrepreneurial spirit is further demonstrated by his ownership of Oxford Homes, a manufactured housing facility where he oversaw all aspects of the home building process, employing 150 people and producing over 8,000 homes over three decades. Peter's commitment to public service is evident through his volunteer leadership roles in various professional associations and organizations, including the Maine State Chamber of Commerce and the Maine Legislature's Trade Policy Commission. 

Jon Courtney is the Founder and President of Courtney Policy Group, where he has successfully developed strategic alliances and partnerships to advance clients' interests through the Maine legislative process. With a robust background in public service, Jon served as an elected Senator in the Maine Legislature, where he held the position of Senate Majority Leader and chaired several key committees, Including the Joint Rules Committee, Taxation Committee, and the Joint Select Committee on Regulatory Fairness and Reform. His extensive experience in government relations is complemented by his commitment to community service, having held volunteer leadership roles in various organizations such as Kiwanis, Elks Club, and the Sanford Chamber of Commerce. 

Julie Ann Smith's career began on an award-winning and politically engaged dairy farm in rural Maine, eventually leading to her professional life of advocacy. Her broad perspective and diverse professional experience have been instrumental in her successful efforts to protect the rights of Maine farmers and develop better support for them. In addition to her work to represent farmers dedicated to enhancing Maine's food system, Julie Ann advocates for numerous business and industry clients. 

Throughout her career, Julie Ann has been honored to serve in various volunteer positions with organizations such as the UMaine Board of Agriculture, Agricultural Council of Maine, and multiple Governor's Task Forces. Her extensive volunteer work reflects her broad range of interests and unwavering commitment to community service.