Good choice on NFT. I see you are still torn between DIY and store-bought. I am not familiar with name brand areo settups, but from what I hear people saying, they do a very good job. Don't know what brand to recommend. You already know this, but the best thing to do is search the forums. If money is not an issue, especially since you have greater responsibilities, I would probably let the guy in the store sell me something. It doesen't matter what, as long as you can time the feeding for something like 2 minutes on and 10 off (you'll have to experiement). You want the roots in air as much as possible with out causing harm to the plants. Consider ease of operation, construction and craftsmanship, refill, cleaning, warrantee, and customer service. You are paying extra at a store to have someone help you before and after the sale. If the guy is a prick, consider other stores. I'm a big fan of expanded clay pellets for the medium. I really don't like rockwool, although some love it. I'm not the only one who says it holds too much moisture. I've wanted to experiment a little with coconut too.

If you're going to make it, it doesn't sound too hard to make a table like you mentioned. I would find as many free pictures and plans as you can, and adapt them to what fits your needs. Another great idea is to ask the store guy as many questions as you need to, until you fully understand how to build one yourself. Not quite fair, but that's their job and they expect it to happen sometimes.

Keep us posted.