Speaking generally, if he's leaving in two years, then it's hard to predict what the job market will be like. However, I'll chance my arm and say (WorldWar III/Gulf War II apart) that things will probably be looking better.
The bottom line is, if he wants an airline job (and the merits of that could fill a whole different thread) then better to be ready to apply for the jobs when the next upturn comes.
Also, if and when next upturn comes, not all airlines will be asking people to pay for their own type rating.
So the bottom line is, if you can afford it and he want's to go fixed wing, get the ATPL and if you're lucky, he'll be in a good position to apply for jobs when he comes out.
Of course, he could always stay rotary, earn less money and enjoy his flying.
Hope that's of some help. Others may have different views - obviously all above simply my own opinion.
