Hi,

A lot depends on the dealer. Some are excellent, some leave much to be desired.I would say try it, and if they do train you as promised, you will gain valuable product knowledge.
The way technology is moving even the best specialist independent is going to struggle to keep up.Not least because the tools,equipment & training are always going to be several steps behind.
The only way good independents score is on personal customer service at a reasonable price. Dealers, with shareholders to satisfy before customers, sometimes fall down in this regard.

Tom W