I am a young(er) consultant as well and I have to echo the advice above, see which FF program will give you the most benefit and then make your decision. I have been flying CO lately but I am considering going back to AA just because of my recent disappointment with CO. Since I do not mind connecting in DFW this works out, but you may want more direct flights out of Houston.

About that CC, does anyone know if how it works if I want to switch from my Chase Platinum to that one? I'd like to have access to some of the lounges instead of just getting miles.