I am starting a new job on monday I have B1/B2/C license and only turboprop experience still they gave me the job although they were searching for md 80 and b737 experienced guys so i think there is a shortage in engineers.
Furthermore I saw someone express conserns about to low quality on newly graduated engineers, I have also experienced the same during the last 2-3 years, I feel the lack of basic handworking skills and fault isolation skills. What is worse I´ve also seen totally fresh guys coming out with the attitude of "I know it all, been there done that", I told one guy lets see how tough you are when you are alone at night in the rain or snow with a nice wiring problem on a 30 year old aircraft where wiring tags are "a bit worn" or maybe a nice old fuel or oil leak and the flight ops guys(nothing against you ops guys) pushing for departure...
When I first got out on my first job you looked up to the guys with experience ( I am not saying to not ask questions or discuss the job)
When my licence was issued the CAA inspector looked me in the eyes and said this is no free pass to aviation work it is your Licence to learn!
I think that is a quite good way of looking at your licence no matter how old or experienced you are...
As for you fresh guys out there treat your mentors (or whatever you want to call them) with respect and they will give you respect back.
