Yes, I have three systems with my name on them. Two were mine from the start. New construction, green build GC's. One I got pulled into because the original contractor freaked out and disappeared. Couldn't handle it.
This was my first.
As to the customer vs contractor, I understand what you mean. Contractors always say, "Well, nobody else does it that way" and then I come back with , well you're right about that, but they're wrong and I'm right." The key to contractors is working with the right ones, but even then It's tough. When we have customers with an existing house and ductwork in inaccessible areas people are always focusing on the "powerplant" to solve their problems when they really should look at distribution.
I have been asked out to several botched GSHP jobs and new or retrofit most the the issues come back to ductwork. People always think it's no big deal to choke off air. LOL strictly amateur hour, but that is the bulk of our industry.
Let me know if you want training. Even though you are in Nevada, Denver is probably your best, closest training option. Beyond that I would recommend going to Earthlinked directly.