LOL MP
Steve, a 'cheap' start at the leaast would be to get SA's DVD and self learn but even better would be to attend one of his classes.
Also Contact Tony, he may have contacts as well that he can direct you to that may be able to help.
At the end of the day, if you have the passion and desire to succeed and make something of it, you can do it. I'm pretty much self taught and it wasn't until this room came along that we got a dedicated area to post stuff for newbies and experienced guys alike. There's plenty of help here and I get a lot of guys PMing me specific questions to I and others are only too happy to help you get going.
Best thing to do is get a few basic tools and some off cuts and have a play one day.
These skills WILL open doors, even on your oppositions jobs

I know coz it happens all the time to me. Preferred contractor contracts will NOT stop the adjuster calling you in to repair something they either caused or can't fix themselves.
John