Yes I do work in the transmission industry Jon. I'm not a transmission builder, but rather work for a large transmission/torque converter supplier.
What I know about standard transmissions is limited,k but I have many contacts in shops that specialize in automatic and standard transmissions.
Short of a bearing press, and maybe a bearing puller, I think that the average specialty car owner has the tools to do the job you are thinking of doing. How good your mechanical skills are, only you know.
What I have seen/heard while calling on shops, is a reluctance on the car owner to let the shop do what is required to get the job done properly. Too many times, the cost governs the quality of the work you get. This is not a knock on you or anyone else Jon, as I've done it myself. I let a couple of bucks get in the way of having my differential done properly and it ended up costing more than if I had let the first shop do the job properly.
If you feel comfortable with wrenches and feel that you have the knowledge/skill to do the job yourself, then "just do it". If not, spend some time looking for a qualified repair shop and have them do it. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the shop. In todays' automotive market, I look for a shop that shows the diplomas and training schools their mechanics have attended, the general look of the shop (typically a dark dungy dump will reflect their workmanship), if they belong to an association associated with their industry, and last but not least "how long have they been in business.
Have fun and take care.
transman