To clarify: I would like to clarify the statement "The best thing you can do is to go work for some consulting firm and let them give you the training...".

It is taken a bit out of context. This was in response to the question: "what advice wouldyou give to anyone who is thinking about becoming an independent consultant".

I don't suggest that a person leave a corporate IT position and immediately open up shop as an IT consultant. I suggest that you seek a permanent position at consulting firm in order to learn what it takes to be a consultant. I would work in this position for several years -- the more the better.

Having skills in a particular area is not an indication that you will make a successful consultant. You may find that the stress of being on the road, constant change, high expectations from the client, and being somewhat of an "outsider" at the client site are not for you.