Hardware.

>Install Gentoo

For programming I suggest you start with python so you get some idea of what programing is, after that you should do your own research on what language learn next, depends on what you want from it.

>>60057126
>I like to consider myself well versed with tech hardware
buying pc parts from internet does not count, anon

>>60057126
Excluding programming and hardware, if you're interested in networking you should do research on various types of networking processes and models such as the OSI model.
As well as this, in the literal software department, you should learn how to troubleshoot OSs and general software.
Learning how software works gui wise will come under programming though.

>>60057126
>Any good places to start with programming and software?
Read the book called Structure and Interpretation of Computer Programs, do as many problems as you can.

>buying pc parts from internet does not count, anon

I'm starting to study Industry technologies, and Computer Sciences, I know.