I would strongly advise continuing down the rental route so that you can get more experience in the field and build a cash-flowing portfolio more apt to handle the risk of a flip.

I currently have a great job in the technology field and the higher education market, but am slowly starting the process for a PhD in computer science.

I would utilize my license to gain a job in the field of real estate so that I am able to gain experience and save money to invest in my first flip or house hack. 

I am not sure if this is a good idea or not as we are new and still laying out the ground work within this career field.

Which field of investing are you focusing on?

I am in the Facilities and Maintenance management field in beautiful Napa (94559) California.

If they are not on, then there may be a good reason why they can not be.In the case of HUD, an owner occupant has an inspection period where they can activate utilities AFTER getting approval from Field Services. 

If the buyer meets those qualifications I'd keep moving the ball down the field. 

I like the job I have right now but I want to get into a career field that has more to do with real estate.

My house is FREE AND CLEAR and the property value has nearly doubled so I can't understand why a credit union/bank/loan company would not want to give me a loan with my house as collateral.. but, that's not my field so, whatever!