Welcome to the forum, Barney.
Hang out where
boat people hang out (DIY yards,
marinas,
boat clubs) to make friends, contribute to their
work, and get opportunities, although this is not quite the time of year for a lot of that where you are.
Learn from posts, I certainly do even when the topic doesn't seem relevant, and remember that your experience from places other than
boating may be just what someone on the forum needs to hear about.