I run a finish carpentry crew by trade, so I know plenty of people to help and ask questions along the way.What would YOU do??

You are doing the right thing by immersing yourself in the trades.

Out of state is way to go for buy hold (with light rehabs).Make Colorado time-trade w-2 money and invest in real estate market with better investment numbers..For on-market deals (MLS/zillow) the buy hold deals, and analysis info are everywhere  on the internet from your bedroom, use diligence period, and keep to light rehab........a realtor can help to a degree, but you must own your own hunt, your numbers, analysis and your offer...i would suggest not buying out of state with wholesaler where there is no due diligence or having no boots on ground will be tricky.. and also suggest not flip paper or property out of state...But a buy and hold with due diligence and light renovation from the on-market (zillow) , and analyzing it on your own is do-able than ever and making an offer on it is action...

My best friend is a master electrician and I have few GC's/trades folks in my circle, no one even mentioned it.

I would like to learn some trades as well, carpentry as the first one I would like to tackle.

Have a plan in place and cost of each trade.  

Over the years the trade places on who is doing better.With any tenant I do not like top market rents.

Also, yes you should find and meet people in all of those trades mentioned.

I want to get the most out of this opportunity while I learn the trade. 

That trade depends on how you were raised and how you see deception.