Take whatever you can get. Some 135 jet time would be awesome. I would be trying to get that but there isn't any part time work I can find for an entry level candidate (even if I pay for my own type- which I considered but decided against)

The 1500 rule a combined with covid created a "glass ceiling" of sorts. You are of no use to ATP working for less than minimum wage once you are close to the hours requirement and regional airlines aren't going to take people at the bare minimums when more qualified guys that got furloughed are begging for jobs.

The current airline situation puts CFIs at the back of the line to get hired behind anyone else qualified with jet time

In fact, I think I am the only qualified category behind you to get hired because I am the 1000 hour R-ATP candidate. The only thing I have going for me in aviation is the "cadet" status with cancelled class dates for two regionals. The second choice regional flys 200s exclusively- so we will see if they change aircraft or just end operations.. The thrid regional I had a class date is now defunct (Compass). I am not expecting anything until at least 2022 if not 2023-24.

I am not instructing anymore (because its not worth my time making less than minimum wage when I no longer need hours) and just renting to stay current. Thankfully my current career pays well and seems to be covid economy proof- for now at least.

Maybe try asking for an unpaid leave of absence and see what ATP says.

When hiring starts up again, you should not have a problem getting a regional gig. I'd take the 135 job and gain the experience. Maybe you'll end up staying until you can get to a major/legacy, if you choose that path.

Go do the interview, prep well for it and don't expect the job to be handed to you. You can network very well on the 135 side I'd almost argue better then 121.

Any advice on what to study for a 135 job?

My interview with envoy was a typical FO interview briefing plates, arrivals, 121 regs, etc. Think it’ll be close to the same? Minus the 121 stuff.

Do you have to resign as a cadet to take the 135 job?

Very hard to tell. Your personality and customer service skills will be just as if not more important than your technical knowledge. Additionally, they will be looking for your ability to conform to company culture and if you’re worth the investment to employ. If they know you’re an Envoy cadet, you’re going to have to explain convincingly that you’re not going to bolt the moment the regionals start to hire.

Makes sense. Honestly about what I was thinking. I’ve always been a people person & get along with about everyone so I’m hoping it goes well.

One of my buddies was actually hired by the same company & he said he wasn’t even asked a tech question. He has contacts at the company though so maybe they gave him a different interview than normal.

Think I should even mention the cadet thing?

He|| no. Better if they don’t know you were foolish enough to sign up for it at all. Don’t lie if they ask you but for damn sure don’t volunteer the info.

Hahah understood. Thanks for the help!

Don’t let the jerks on this forum get you down. You’re doing the smart thing by asking questions and there’s good information in here if you can ignore the negativity which, sadly, seems to be virtually guaranteed as of late.