[CJV648]

Don't assume that because you are in a small town that there is no one interested and capable of mentoring. I do environmental engineering projects in out of the way places and I am frequently in awe of the breadth of knowledge of small town mechanics, plumbers and electricians. NH has a reputation for Yankee ingenuity, right? Locating the right person might be a problem though since the best of these guys are insanely busy (but not as much in the winter). The local hardware or plumbing supply store might be willing tell someone who in town could be help. Alternately you might look for a nearby retired mechanical engineer looking to get involved in a new activity. I don't know if your regional chapter of SME would be willing to put a call out for volunteers.