I have read a pile of books on motor controls but have never been able to get my hands on actually wiring a motor controller, motor starter, sump pump controls, etc. I checked into the local college here in TX and they dont offer any motor control classes. Anyone have any ideas on how I can get some hands on experience? Thanks.

If you can go to work in the oil fields there in Tx., that's where I learned Motor Controls. Plenty of valves, and pump controls to be repaired.