Learning Question

As I was paying attention in class, I was curious as to how Bud was able to learn all of this very specific information. The material we have been introduced to is overwhelming in its complexity and volume and yet Bud has tried to make it as simple as possible for us so that we can get a basic understanding of the subject. I am sure there is far more he can show us. So, for material as dynamic and technical as this, does one learn through taking classes like this, work training, or just keeping abreast through personal research and reading?