After an Army career that began with graduation with a BS in General Engineering from the United States Military Academy at West Point, Rivers became his platoon leader and company commander; and he also attended the US Army Airborne School, Infantry Officers´ Basic Course, Ranger School, and Finance Officer Advanced Course, retiring as a Captain after an injury curtailed his service career.

He then earned a MS in Systems Management from the University of Southern California and joined the IBM sales team, becoming a top sales representative, after which he excelled in sales management for two of IBM´s major resellers.

Currently President and Chief Executive Officer of both Rivers Resources and Esource Resources, Rivers´ two businesses number among their clients such respected businesses as Eli Lilly, Johnson Controls, Rockwell International, Cummins Engine, Anderson Tool and Engineering; plus institutions like the US Army Corps of Engineers and the State if Indiana, among others.

Rivers also serves as President and CEO of Kids Voice of Indiana, a non-for-profit, legally-based advocate of Indiana children in need of services. He serves on many Boards and also helps with several local clubs and both secular and religious organizations.