Fly_guy,
I tried to get into SV whilst doing a contract with them in 1997/98 through QR.
It was so difficult to get anywhere.
I found they would not hire non arab ex-pat males.
Only way was like others have said Air Atlanta contract yet it is seasonal and poor salary and conditions.
Myself and several friends have just got into EY out of AUH.
We start in July 05
I can highly recommend EY, We know people there that are loving it.
Lots of room for advancement.
See the thread on EY I started here months ago, lots of info there.
Apply online...
www.etihadairways.com
PM me if you like.