I work at a 'regional' carrier and took the first upgrade I could get. Still struggling with schedules and being back at the bottom of the barrel, but I have not regretted taking the upgrade for one second. It's been a great learning experience and lots of fun and sort of renewed some enthusiasm for the job. After six years in the right seat (lost my first job at 3 years) it was just what I needed.

There are some folks who make it to a major with little or no captain time on an RJ. It is what it is, but I am glad to have finally made it.

BTW, at my company there are about 15 or so semi-permanent F/Os. The company has no policy on them but they like their bidding power and QOL and are financially secure enough to sit right seat. Different situation than at a major I guess.