It's a start in the right direction. However, If I were you I'd look into a degree that isn't related to aviation so you have a little versatility. As Rickair said, no training program can guarantee you a job, and there are no guarantees in this industry. Get your CFI before graduating if you can and start working at SIU, or over at nearby Marion to build time.

The biggest factors are hard to say. The industry is very dynamic. However, a major one will be how much movement there is. As guys move "up" from instructing to regionals, then to majors, it opens doors for us bottom feeders. No hiring at the top, no movement at the bottom.

As for the Airforce, it won't hurt. And thank you for defending our freedom!