The classes on propellant manufacturing that I was thinking of do not need to cost much. But they do have a requirement of L2 certification. Without L2, TRA will not allow EX... Essentially, it is an insurance thing. Nobody will let you burn an EX under your name if you are not at least L2 at a TRA research launch. Doing things on your own doesn't have that limitation but you lose a lot of advantages as well.
You live close enough to be able to take one of the classes, but you would need the cert first.
You live close enough to MDRA to check out one of their launches (like this weekend for instance, weather permitting I'll be there Saturday with two others for three EX N projects). It is about a 4 hour drive for you. L1 cert can be fairly inexpensive - it is essentially just a model rocket on steroids. Some manufacturers have certification specials for motors, and the small motors are not all that expensive. No electronics are required and motor ejection is fine. The requirements are intended to be pretty easy. I'd recommend considering it. L2 is more work of course but it doesn't have to be expensive. Get that far and I or others can recommend a good and affordable course that is within driving distance for you.
There are other launch locations not super far from you. It would be worth your time to check one of them out.
Gerald
Awesome!
I am actually from Lebanon originally, up here in Williamsport for college. Don't know if my main home is going to be closer or further from these events. I'm actually heading home this week since the semester is over (pending 3 more finals!!!).