Read computer periodicals for current topics. The Internet - reputable sources only. But may be out of date. Good for background. Manuals - if you can stand it.
Tutorials Make use of the tutorials and online help provided with the software.
Don't take technical people at face value. There are people who know a lot, but who can not communicate well with lay people. There are people in big-time jobs who talk a good game, but don't really know enough to be helpful. Thirdly, there are some who know a lot, but are territorial and don't want to tell you what they know. Develop a good relationship based on trust and mutual understanding.