4. Is this whole idea realistic or am I kidding myself to think I could achieve a license this way?
Captaine flam makes some good points. however,
I still would like to eventually acquire a Part-66 licence for my own satisfaction. And I am continuing to work on this and relying on the goodwill of good friends I have made in the business over the past few years. I still need three more years of experience as I have been a "self-study" student. I am quite confident that I'll manage to achieve this. It's just getting the contacts I think.
What I am trying to say, bcw, is don't be put off my people telling you it can't be done. Because this is not true.
A contradiction.
All the hard work, time and effort put in, commendable as it is, and still a licence is not achieved.
It is very difficult to obtain a CAA Licence. It is a full time occupation career path, not something you do as a part time 'hobby'.
Mechanics with 20 years aircraft experience can still struggle to qualify even in a fully supported MRO environment.
Good luck.
