Cadet Programs for career changers

Hey all,

I’ve been digging through recent threads and keep seeing the same theme come up: hiring (especially at the regional level) seems to be increasingly favoring cadet pipelines.

I’m currently a full-time mechanical engineer, and I’m planning a career transition into aviation. Currently on a traditional route, pay as I go for PPL → IR → CPL → CFI, build hours while continuing to work, I expect 5-8 years.

With how things seem to be shifting toward airline-affiliated cadet programs, I’m starting to question whether that approach could put me at a disadvantage later on.

Given the current hiring environment, would you still recommend the self-funded / independent route, or is it becoming significantly more advantageous to aim for a cadet program?

Appreciate any insight, especially anyone who has made the long-term transition from corporate engineering to regionals.