You're absolutely right. There's a shortage coming, and there will be massive hiring at mainline carriers to offset retirements and (possibly) growth at the majors while the regionals shrink. On the other hand, you'll get hired into a major job that has less than half the earning potential it did 10 years ago. That "brass ring" will tarnish within the first two years when you realize the career you hoped for isn't a career anymore. It's just a job. I commend you for going out on your own and earning a degree without Daddy's money. I did that myself and I know how hard it is. I also know how valuable that made my education to me. Automation has greatly reduced the skill set needed for this job, and the mediocre advances we are making beyond bankruptcy contracts are the proof. This "profession" has forever been reset to a much lower bar. If that non-aviation degree is in something marketable, I highly recommend a career change.

- Disappointed regional to major guy.