Becoming a bench jeweler

Hey guys! So I currently work for Zales and i’m trying to become an apprentice bench jeweler at our shop. I have previous experience with a private Diamond wholesaler as a sorter and have experience taking stones out of set jewelry and sizing stones for replacement. Can I get some tips from some jewelers here? My goal is to create my own jewelry in the future and I desperately want it🙏🏻 Any advice is greatly appreciated