[Jack21]

Mr. Wrench,

To answer your question, 15 years of being a mechanic at a dealership certainly qualifies you experience wise.

Fabrication skills, specifically welding, is not necessary provided you know a welding shop you can take parts and drawings to. For the most part these things bolt together, but sooner or later you'll want something welded, or some part made.

Do you work on your own cars at home? Is this a hobby to you?
If so, building one is still a labor of frustration. If it isn't, then you might be happier with a turnkey-, or roller like an SPF where all you do is put the engine and trans in.