Why does he have to 'make it to the top slot' at a major?

My airline job started with Northwest in 1985 and with a little over 300 days to go, I'll never get to the 'top' at the Delta, yet I'm flying the highest-paying equipment (A350 or 777, pay is the same).

My suggestion (Mind you, I haven't pursued an airline job since 1984.) is get to a Regional as quickly as possible. Do whatever it takes to accrue the experience required to get in the door at an outfit like Endeavor. There's no good reason why you can't be a major airline captain by your 40th birthday, maybe sooner!

If you don't already have your 4 year degree, complete it! It doesn't make you a better pilot, but it sure makes you a much better candidate.

You can do all of this!

Good luck.