I've met some knowledgeable BI's over the years but, they are far, & few between.  Most I've encountered, don't know anything they haven't read in a book, & have little understanding of the difference between, book & practical application.
The best one's I've ever met were unsuccessful contractors. 

  Nothing like having someone who couldn't make it in a trade, tell other tradesman how it should be done...lol
BTW.... Those hurricane straps on your trusses are a good thing imo.  Screws don't have much shear strength, &  I have seen some trusses move, that were simply nailed to the top plate, or screwed.
I do butt joints the way you described.  I've done beams supporting roofs that way with, 3 or 4 nails (16d) vertically, every 12".