Born and raised in Washington D.C., John Henry Irons grew up in a rough neighborhood plagued by violence and crime. This environment instilled in him a strong sense of justice and a desire to protect the innocent, motivating his future actions. He witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of unchecked power, shaping his commitment to responsible heroism.

Irons displayed remarkable aptitude in engineering from a young age. He attended college and excelled in his studies, specializing in structural engineering and advanced weaponry design. His intellectual prowess quickly made him a standout student, foreshadowing his future ability to construct and master the Steel armor.