I am now working with a gunsmith(same one helped me build my 700), who has 45yrs experience. He has welcomed me to come over anytime I want. He is 74, and just wants to pass on his knowledge to someone he can trust and who is willing to work with it. He sees gunsmithing as a dieing art, and wants to help keep it alive. I guess it is kind of like an informal apprenticeship. I help him work on stuff, and he teaches me, allows me to use his shop, and fixes my mistakes. Maybe you could find a guy like this in you area.
My next project with him is a Custom 223 heavy stainless fluted barrel on a mauser 98 action will let you see it when I am done.