Howard Steele began his training in 1989 with the traditional Oki Island art of Asian Karatedo. His passion for Jiu Jitsu was ignited in 1993, like many others, after witnessing the effectiveness of the art in the first UFC. However, it wasn’t until 2001 that he began formal training in Gracie Jiu Jitsu®. Over the years, he studied under several highly respected instructors, including legendary UFC Champion and Jiu Jitsu pioneer Royce Gracie.

His Jiu Jitsu progression continued under world-renowned instructor Master Pedro Sauer, who further advanced him to Black Belt, a significant milestone in his martial arts journey. In 2025, he was promoted to 2nd-degree Black Belt by Rener and Ryron Gracie, solidifying his deep connection to the Gracie family and their self-defense philosophy.

In addition to leading Gracie Jiu Jitsu Smyrna, Howard is a Gracie Survival Tactics (GST) Master Instructor and teaches law enforcement professionals across the country. He specializes in defensive tactics, real-world self-defense, and control strategies designed to help officers safely manage encounters while minimizing risk.

Today, Professor Steele proudly represents the Gracie Family and their art as the owner and Head Instructor of Gracie Jiu Jitsu Smyrna, a Certified Gracie University® Training Center. His extensive martial arts background, combined with decades of teaching experience, makes him a highly respected leader in the Jiu Jitsu and law enforcement training communities. He remains committed to providing top-tier self-defense instruction, ensuring that students of all ages, backgrounds, and professions receive authentic, effective, and empowering Gracie Jiu Jitsu training in a safe and welcoming environment.