Colonel Alexis Rivera Espada serves as the Director of the Maneuver Battle Lab (MBL) of Fort Benning, Georgia, where he oversees live, virtual, and constructive experimentation in support of the Army Futures Command (AFC).  The MBL represents all maneuver brigade combat teams, Security Assistance Brigades, to include individual Soldiers. The AFC’s primary experiment for small unit modernization is the Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment Campaign executed annually by the MBL.  In addition to its primary mission, the MBL represents across the Army, current and future formations in integrated constructive federate experiments.

He was commissioned as an Armor officer from Columbus State University, Columbus, Georgia, in 1995.  While there, he focused his studies on history and public administration with the government.  His career has bridged operational and institutional forces in various assignments in Infantry and Armor units.  Colonel Rivera’s operational assignments include deployments supporting Operation Just Cause, Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Spartan Shield, and Operation Inherent Resolve.  

Before becoming the Director, he served as the Chief, Heavy Systems Branch Chief for the Maneuver Requirements Division (MRD).  From June 2016 to July 2018, he commanded 1st Battalion, 35th Armor Regiment, Fort Bliss.

His operational experience includes service in the 1st Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, Hunter Army Airfield, Georgia;  1st Brigade, 1st Infantry Division, Fort Riley, Kansas; 1st and 3rd Brigades, 1st Cavalry Division, Fort Hood, Texas;  and 1st Armored Division, Fort Bliss, Texas.

His military training includes Airborne,  Air Assault, and Ranger courses.  He is a graduate of the Armor Officer Basic Course, Captains Career Course, Combined Arms and Services Staff School, Air Command and General Staff College, and the National War College.  His military education includes a Master of Operational Art and Science, and a Master of Science in National Security Strategy.  His civilian education includes a Bachelor of Arts and a Master of Public Administration (Government).