Originally Posted by Blueridger

You sure did set your sights high my friend. Let's see: you say you have almost 3 years at NJA, which means you joined the ranks when starting pay was about 26k. Wow, you were an ambitious young man.......
What happened to you is probably what happened to many of us at NJA: we stumbled upon this company after being furloughed when almost no other carriers were hiring pilots with our qualifications. So only one word comes to mind when you gripe about your long upgrade and mediocre pay (and only compared to SWA, FEDEX, and UPS): HYPOCRITE.
Don't cry about how much you make and instead look at how much the union has achieved for us. I came to NJA out of desperation and never planned on finishing my career here. Now, it is a whole different situation, and I have no desire to leave. So be thankful for what you have, because it is a whole lot more than what you originally settled for!!!
As for paying off your house in 5 years at age 28, I can't see how you are struggling in the least. Last I checked, I got 28 years worth of payments on my home!
And on a final note, your upgrade will be occurring within the next 2 years if you truly have been here nearly 3 years. My friend was hired exactly 3 years ago and upgraded a few months ago, like you mention, things have slowed down, but that is mainly due to the PIC merry go round that was previously discussed. So hold on, you will get your hard earned fourth stripe soon my friend (no sarcasm intended - well maybe just a little).