I work on a lot of cars, trucks, tractors, motorcycles, etc., and I'm not union!
Also, outside of warranty work, NONE of my vehicles have EVER been to a dealer for service.
Unfortunately for dealers, my sons and stepsons have followed in daddy's footsteps, and one works at a NAPA store. All 5 of them do their own oil changes and tuneups, all but one has changed an engine/transmission, or helped me do the same.
I applaud your mechanical abilities. I was not blessed with these but my brother in law is probably the best mechanic this side of the state so I don't have to learn.
Loved your Bio page! I believe we are much alike other than mechanical ability.