Or perhaps the computer program that scores the apps just happens to pick guys who have a diverse background and have risen to leadership positions over their peers for interviews. This includes 30 somethings and plenty of civilian guys. Maybe then the interviewers filter out guys with chips on their shoulders and entitlement attitudes. After that perhaps the chief pilots score the candidates based on their interview and recommendations from the pilot group.

Of course, thats just a theory of mine. You're probably right that they just call a bunch of 40 year old "yes sir" military types who will follow any order and brainwash them so they will vote yes on a contract as you suggested.

The average age of new hires is around 40, and most of them do have military background. However, plenty of guys are in their early 30's to late 50's. Several have slugged it out at regionals over the past few years and some are civilian only but just about everyone has instructor/evaluator/check airman/other leadership experience. And what company wouldn't want a guy/gal like that? The guys getting hired now are older beacause they are the most qualified and they are available because there has not been a whole lot of hiring over the past 6 years or so.

ATR-unless you are in your early 20's I'd say you have as good a chance as anyone. However, something tells me that your hostility towards certain groups of people who have found success is a big turnoff and that attitude usually prevents people like you from getting in leadership and authority positions. Even if you're the chief pilot of your company and have a billion pic hours, all it takes is one 40 year old mil guy who knows you and takes offense to your comments to walk into the people department and give them a heads up and you're done for good at Southwest.