Steps to becoming an ATC in the US
 

What are the steps to becoming an ATC in the US? I've searched the Internet and the FAA website and am not finding a definitive answer. Is there any special preference given to former military members (4 years active duty Navy)?

Thanks in advance?

Yes, as a former military member you get veterans preference. Are you under 31? To apply, you have to wait for a bid from the FAA. Unfortunately, they just had one so you'll prob have to wait until the fall for the next one. They have several different categories of hiring, but they seem to always be changing them. College degree in ATC, previous experience (CTO), off the street hiring, and veterans hiring. Keep checking USAjobs.gov. I suggest making a profile there and opting for the email alerts when an FAA ATC job is posted.

Let me know if you have any more Q's.