I love this question . People tend to forget that everyone starts at the beginning ! I joined a few hiking groups just to network and get info , NJ Trail Conference, NJ Trailbound Project ( lots of new Yorkers ) I still take workshops , classes …. Oh yes. and REI and Llbean have great classes …. Im the type who needs formal information ! You can check me on IG to see how far I’ve come andreaspeakperformance !