Steve,
I've been on a number of courses with LTT since Jan 2003 including IICRC leather technician which I got 92%.I have learned alot and done quite alot of work from it also both cleaning and repairs , however I believe I have along way to go so dont want to be complacent.
As you say there is work out there and the more training and experience we get the more able we are to do it , but be prepared for the odd job to come back and bite you on the bum.
Mike