I'm glad you pdt guys are happy there, as for the most part, it is a good company. But, to keep it balanced, I'm going to present the other side. I used to work there too, and I didn't like it. Of course, I wasn't a pilot, and they seemed to have the only good deal at the company. They have an excellent contract, but managers at USAir would sell their own mothers if it meant a profit for them. I think the wholly-owned regionals are their best bet for a stable future, but mailine pilots also want to restrict them too much. Also, PDT's management only treats pilots well because they have a good contract, and other employees get left in the cold. I also agree that they have good training, but as you say, some weak people are helped through. I have a captain friend there who flew a checkride with a guy, and he couldn't believe they were going to let him pass. He said "this guy is going to fly with passengers soon?" I'm not so sure this is a good idea.
I would suggest you get on with Piedmont as a last resort. Just my opinion, as I have a lot of friends who still work there, and I wish them well. I just don't think its going to work out for those guys. Thanks for your time.