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Well if that's the case, and if you're also limited in local welding suppliers as well it really would be an important factor to consider as to the type of service that is available in your area... In other words, if you get great deal from let's say Thermal arc on some multi-process power sources, yet the supplier which you do most of your business with is not an authorized warranty service center for Thermal Arc, then common sense tells you NOT to by that brand. ;) That is unless there's another one around that does have factory warranty repair service for you to take advantage of...
However, I have heard some stories about their equipment and how they honor their warranties, and most of them were not good, but that's only what I heard and maybe some others heard different... At the very least, most independent welding supplier offer at the minimum, three different brands and they're either Miller or Lincoln with either Thermal or ESAB as a third brand. Some of the larger welding distributors carry even more brands, but since most of the equipment being used in the rural areas consist of either the proverbial "Red, or Blue" machines, then it would come down to serviceability from your supplier as well simplicity in design for you to work into your curriculum.
Respectfully,
Henry