I think it sounds like a great plan. I have been on all sides of this business and some of the biggest problems seem to be because of the stratification of the various professions. The college professors don't usually have experience in the field and the engineers don't actually have to install the equipment they design. The actual installing electrician doesn't usually doesn't understand the design issues, politics and economics that drove the engineering decisions.
I think everyone should spend some time working in the other areas, just to see what goes on.
