Re: What looks better to Cathay?
Skywest is a high-quality, all round classy regional airline. My brother is there right now, while I'm at Mesa. His QOL after four months is better than mine after 4 years.
Upgrade at Skywest is at about a year in the Brasilia EMB-120 and a 1.5 years in the CRJ (as of now, subject to change).
Good luck with the decision.
Just remember to enjoy the path, and not focus too much on the destination.
CS.