I am the same way.
I don't want to hear about kid-troubles, or husband-troubles, or their lastest tattoo (gross).
I sort of stick to myself at work, and try to avoid getting caught up in those conversations. In fact, I try to keep my personal life as far removed from my work life as possible...
Go to junior college, or a community college for your first 2 years. You will learn many skills you will need to run your mechanic business, and you could even get some real-life training by working part time for a local shop.
Then, when you have your AA, you will be ready to run a business, BUT...