I just got myself some mini PC's and want to set up a k8s lab to strengthen my skills, I was laid off 8mo ago and haven't been able to find a new job.

I want to automate everything I can while building this and was just looking for input on how people might recommend I do it.

I was thinking of using pxeboot to install Debian using preseed to automate the installation.

Then maybe install k8s on VMs on the servers, but I'm not sure if I should do that or just keep it on the hosts themselves. They're decently specced. AMD Ryzen 3 2200 CPUs with 24gb ram and an SSD/NVME combo.

So, any advice for where I should start or tips/tricks?