Today, we celebrate a mainframe icon whose five-decade impact spans the globe and generations.
Dusty Rivers
Senior Director, US Systems Z, Mainline Information Systems
Birmingham, Alabama, USA
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View the entire 2025 Influential Mainframers group here.
Dusty Rivers is one of only two individuals in the world to hold the title of Lifetime IBM Champion for IBM Z—and was the first ever awarded the distinction in 2020. With 48 years in the mainframe industry, Dusty has helped shape both the platform and the people who rely on it.
In his role as Senior Director of US Systems Z at Mainline Information Systems, Dusty helps enterprise clients align their modernization strategies with IBM Z’s evolving capabilities. But his reach extends far beyond technical leadership.
As a Board Member for SHARE, Dusty leads initiatives focused on students, volunteers, early-career professionals, and leadership development. In 2024, he organized and hosted student and “New to Z” tracks at both SHARE Orlando and SHARE Kansas City, mentoring attendees and guiding first-time speakers. He also helped two students land internships and jobs—just one example of his hands-on commitment to the future workforce.
Dusty regularly presents at industry events across the globe, including sessions this year at IBM TechXchange, where he contributed to multiple sessions on topics related to AI, modernization, and skills.
He also led “Meet the IBM Champions” sessions at SHARE and shared insights on modernization in podcasts and interviews, including conversations with PKWARE and Steven Dickens of the I Am a Mainframer podcast. When asked what advice he’d give to his younger self, Dusty didn’t hesitate:
“The first thing you have to learn to sell is yourself,” he said. “If you don’t believe in what you can do, no one else will.”
Whether helping large enterprises define their modernization journey or encouraging students to build careers in Z, Dusty leads with humility, clarity, and conviction. He’s a trusted advisor, a gifted communicator, and a tireless advocate for mainframe’s role in the hybrid world.
In 2025, Planet Mainframe is proud to recognize Dusty Rivers as one of our Influential Mainframers.
Influential Mainframer
Mainframe technology continues to evolve because of the dedicated professionals, educators, mentors, and innovators who drive it forward. We’re shining a spotlight on the individuals who are making waves—whether they’re advancing technology, mentoring new talent, sharing knowledge, championing modernization, or quietly keeping mission-critical systems running every day. These are the people shaping the future of mainframe. They come from all backgrounds and experience levels, but they all have one thing in common: they’re making a difference.
Check back daily as we reveal a new honoree. Read their stories, celebrate their impact, and be inspired.
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