Timastyle,
Advise is free and sometimes overpriced at original cost but here is my 2 cents. Go to car shows in area and soak it all in. When you meet the folks and they are more important than the cars as cars always change - people don't so pick people.
When you click with someone offer to help with next build item and learn all the tricks they have picked up over time. You get to install parts they paid for while learning ta boot. When you find right project they will return favor and the ball is rolling. I could not build my toys without all the great people and favors past back and forth over the years plus the deals and insider trading that goes each way. Networking = makes it fun and affordable FRIENDS make it happen.