The stats vary but about 80% of new businesses fail within 5 years. So, along with the allure of a chunk of the profits, you really want to make sure you've considered what happens should those profits turn to losses.
There are few things more exciting than a growing business. Few things more...
I think cvg makes a good point. Sometimes you've got to get ON a learning curve before you can get down one. It sounds like you've got some impressive training and real ambition to apply it. I wouldn't be too quick to discount the value of the multi-disciplinary project work, though. Learning...
It's a great question, but I'd ask it of your clients,too -- especially your best ones.
Value is in the eye of the beholder. And it's so easy to spend time and money on improvements a dozen engineers might think are wonderful but that clients really don't care about.
But if you can invest in...
TM is highly beneficial. If you're not sure, give it a test drive. They don't ask for big bucks up front and they don't ask for a lifetime commitment!
As for the resume - if you think it helps to get an interview, put it in. Better if it's in the form of some accomplishment, eg served as club...