He was a 1982 graduate of the United States Military Academy where he was commissioned as an armor officer.

During his years of active service, he has held command and staff positions across the Army and joint community in Germany, the United States, Southwest Asia and South Korea.

Abrams's general officer assignments also include service as the Deputy Commanding General, Combined Arms Center-Training, Fort Leavenworth, Kansas and the commander of the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, California.

On 11 October 2018, the Senate confirmed his nomination to command United States Forces Korea.

[14] Abrams holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Military Academy, a Master of Science in Administration from Central Michigan University, and a master's degree in Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College.