Got my pilot's license in '87. During my pilot training, I visited the local control tower. The controllers there suggested I try for the job as an ATC. Eight months later I was headed to OKC. Controlling for almost 20 years. Does holding progressive ratings make you a better controller? No. You may be more well rounded in your understanding of what takes place in the cockpit or during certain phases of flight, but the skills are just that. I know a controller who is a CFII, and is one crappy controller. Would I spend the dough at a college to be an ATC. NO. Get the education and degree, because then you'll always have it, you can fall back on it and they can't take it away, but don't do it because it'll help you through the academy. Right now, most are breezing through OKC, because it's a numbers game for the FAA, and most are washing out at facilities. The skills are what's needed. I have a 21 year old daughter, looking for a career. If the FAA wasn't so close to total collapse, I'd steer her towards ATC, she's smart enough. However, given the current state of affairs of my employer, you're better off waiting. You will see drastic changes within the next 24 months. Not sure if they'll be good or bad, but you will see them! Corporate America wants to reduce pay, reduce staffing, increase company profits. See where you'll fit in there...