ianr33: I have a buddy who dives the entire tech setup recreationally but is getting his technical training also. I have talked with him along with several others who have echoed your post. My current gear configuration is listed on my public profile, and like many people have said through the years, all roads lead to backplate/wing rigs. I am convinced that this statement is true. However as I am still in college, my gear stockpile has not been growing as rapidly as I would like it to. All of my gear I have been able to purchase brand new with warranty and still get good deals that stay within the budget.
Back to topic at hand: I fully understand the risks and implications that overhead environments pose and instead of being macho-man, I would like proper training in how to handle myself in situations where my buddies and my own lives and personal safety are at stake.
I do not plan on advancing to full cave cert, but I would like to complete cavern. Eventually I would like to finish my certifications out with: OW, AOW, Rescue, MSD, Cavern, Nitrox, Deep Specialty, Wreck Diver Specialty, Underwater Navigator, Search and Recovery, and Night Diver. My goal is to become a well rounded diver who is proficient in all areas of diving skills.