John Henry Irons maintains a close relationship with his family, including his parents, siblings, and especially his niece Natasha Irons (also known as Steel, often referred to as Starlight). Family is a core part of his motivation.

John Henry takes on a mentor and father-figure role with his niece, Natasha. He helps guide her and often builds her her own set of Steel armor so she can assist him in his heroic duties.

His time among the Reign of the Supermen and beyond allows John to develop friendships with Superman and many members of the Justice League and other heroes, with many having an engineers' mind like him.