You beat them by NOT joining them. A lot of people said that about MESA. It's been a rough road for those guys. I might think twice about that philosophy. Regionals are no longer stepping stones. Most people will be stuck in the current airline they work for. Unless they find something else to do. I hold no faith in some made up story about Legacy carriers hiring like crazy. And if they do it will be from the top of the group while you at the bottom looking for a fast transition will have to wait for the next wave in 15 to 20 years.