Welcome aboard!
I also will say the training missions are very good for getting your feet wet. Don't just waltz through them. Play around and try just about anything you can think of. Maybe even especially the really crazy things.
Don't install the mod yet, but download the GWX manual. Not that there isn't a bit to learn in the official one, but the GWX cats did an exemplary job with the documentation. Some very good things in the back on tactics/ evasion and the like.
Plot everything on the nav map. At least for me it helps develop a better feel for the overall situation. And it helps get you ready for manual targeting.
Have fun! Unless I missed a memo that's what it's about
Good luck, and good Hunting.
And for the love of all that is Scared...
STAY OUT OF SHALLOW WATER!