John Wills was born in Sibley, Iowa. Wills graduated from Sibley High School in 1984. He served in the U.S. Army from 1983 to 2015. Wills earned an associate degree in environmental studies from Iowa Lakes Community College in 1987, a bachelor's degree in biology from Northwestern College in 1989, a master's degree in political science and government from American Military University in 2007, and a master's degree in environmental policy and management from American Military University. His career experience includes working as a Clean Water Alliance coordinator with the Dickinson Soil and Water Conservation District. Wills has been affiliated with the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC).
