AFRES/ANG path most conducive to becoming Astronaut

Howdy all,

I am a prior service infantryman finishing undergrad in a STEM field. I would like to commission to continue to serve the taxpayer, but also gain experience relevant to human spaceflight.

Ideally, I'd like to find a sponsoring unit to send me to OTS+UPT. Then I would start a PhD program after seasoning and becoming MWS qualified.

Some things I am curious about:

• Is there anyway to become a T-38 FAIP for Reserve/Guard? As a companion trainer for 'X' unit?
• Could I attend TPS as a civvie flight test engineer, even if I am a rated pilot in ANG/AFRES?
• Will there ever be an AFRES route to the U-2? NASA has been using another high-altitude air-frame (WB-57) to supplement astronaut candidate training. Pretty unique skills, plus I'd love to support ISR missions. 
  (https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2187171/making-history-reserve-pilot-flies-u-2-dragon-lady/ )
• EDIT: Just for fun... could I wear my CIB on my flight suit instead of wings?

Edited September 8, 20205 yr by BirdUp