Copywriter transitioning to UX — how can I get involved?

I've spoken to my ECD about joining the UX department and the UX Director gave me a list of required reading and told me to start learning Sketch. I've asked for the GA course, but the UX Director said that I could learn everything on the job, especially since I already have agency experience and know how to sell in my ideas and finding a CTA, etc.

I have a huge amount of downtime right now and can basically spend all day playing around in Sketch, so what could I do to get him to start booking me on projects as soon as possible? I have an app idea in my copywriting portfolio, maybe I could design the user journey?