Didn't I see in your original post that you tried loading on a frame & had trouble loading it? Do you already have a frame that will accommodate your DM? If you do, I think you're on to something here. $8/per hr is very reasonable. A certification class will do you a world of good. You'll learn how to load, unload, etc. It will give you practice to move the machine like you were saying. It seems to me you just need some guidance/instruction so that you can come home & do it yourself on the frame you already have. Not only that, it will give you a good bit of knowledge as to whether you want to pursue LA quilting.
I agree with some of the others, try it...you may like it!