I would venture to say that the experienced and respected modders are mainly self-taught with only the odd question thrown at other modders along the way.

In all practicality, how can someone lead or be productive on a mod and also fully mentor someone?

Most do not progress because they are not willing to learn and thrash things out in the laboratory of pain and CTDs which is modding - say good bye to your time! ;)

I agree that an environment of trade and communication must be fostered. and it should be modding based.