I think you're talking about the generation that's started out during the modern era of ferocious competition and ultra low ticket prices...
Back in the day when there were fewer airlines and flying anywhere cost $$$$s and passengers were grateful to simply get their in one piece never mind the lack of lemon scented towelletes, it was possible to pay handsome salaries and lavish extensive training, etc.
The only reason one has to pay to be trained these days is because there's people willing to pay the fee. Personally speaking I think this means that piloting is a questionable career choice for youngsters these days. Compared to careers like electronics engineering where there's a dire shortage of good people, recommending flying sounds like poor careers advice.