Ground Question

Because the column mounts to those plastic slider blocks Some do have a ground strap that goes under one of the column stud nuts to a bolt on the dash frame. I don't know if this is related to your problem but if there is evidence you had one I would put one back.

I agree.

i dont think the shop fixing the power steering had anything to do with your dash light not working

It would if they had to loosen the steering column from the dash and didn't reinstall the ground wire.