[1] After graduating from Harvard, Colbert clerked for the New York City firm of Rathbone, Perry, Kelley, and Drye, which was the general counsel for the Chrysler Corporation.
He was mentored by Chrysler head K. T. Keller, who had Colbert learn about mechanics, engineering, and production, as well as handle labor negotiations and other legal duties.
In 1943, he was put in charge of the new Dodge Chicago Plant and oversaw the construction of most of the B-29 bomber aircraft engines used in World War II.
[2] On November 3, 1950, it was announced that Keller was elected chairman of the board of directors and Colbert would succeed him as the company's president and chief executive.
[3] Colbert led the company during prosperous times fueled by the post–World War II economic boom.
[9] On July 21, the board of directors announced that it had reached a settlement agreement with Newberg over $450,000 in profits he had made from his stake in two parts suppliers.