Johnson graduated from Stephen D. Lee High School in Columbus, Mississippi in 1972, and in January 1973 joined the United States Air Force. He earned a Bachelors Degree in Computer Science from Troy University in 1979, and a Masters Degree in Computer Science from Georgia Tech in 1984. Serving for over 26 years in defense of our nation, first as a flight simulator instructor and maintenance technician, Johnson eventually held numerous executive and command positions, including: Executive Officer to the Commander, USAF Standard Systems Center, Gunter Air Force Station, Montgomery, Alabama; Commander, 96th Communications Squadron and Deputy Group Commander, 96th Communications Group, Eglin Air Force Base, Ft. Walton Beach, Florida; and, Director of the Chief Information Officer Staff, U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

After retiring from the U.S. Air Force in 1999, Johnson turned to creating successful Information Technology companies. In 2006, he became the Chief Information Officer for Stoneridge, Inc., a global manufacturer of highly engineered electronic components for the transportation industry.

In 2010, Johnson was elected to his first term in the U.S. House of Representatives, serving the people of Ohio's Sixth Congressional District. He was reelected in 2012, 2014, and 2016. He serves on the House Energy and Commerce Committee and the House Budget Committee.

Johnson has served in his local church's music and youth programs, and he speaks around the country on faith-based issues. Johnson currently resides in Marietta, Ohio with his wife, LeeAnn, and their son Nathan. In addition, Johnson is the proud father of three grown children (Josh, Julie, and Jessica), and is the grandfather of six.