He returned home to study advertising at what is now the Paier College of Art. During the 1950 and 60's, he became a successful commercial artist, first working for an ad agency, and then becoming a freelance artist. During this time, he married and started a family. He began producing freelance comic book art for Charlton Press in Derby, Connecticut. Charlton acquired the rights to many King Feature characters. George was offered a contract to produce the POPEYE illustrations. He was hired as assistant editor, in 1971 was promoted to managing editor, and eventually executive editor. George was been recognized for his work with a nomination for the Shazam Award for Best Penciller (Humor Division) in 1974, and another nomination for the Shazam Award for Best Inker (Humor Division) that same year.

A crowning achievements include a career guidance series, "Learn how to be a Cartoonist" special, and a Popeye epic 50th anniversary comic book special published in 1979. Wildman's tenure as editor continued through 1985. George left Charlton, moving into a freelance comic book and children's book illustration career.