Greetings GBEALL to SB and to diving! OW and working on AOW, sounds like you are on your way. The best way to get into scuba as more than a hobby is to become a student; research, read, study, and most importantly dive every chance you get. SB is a great place to learn from other divers, ask questions, listen to gear advice, talk to diving professionals working in the Dive Industry right now.
Good luck with AOW and continue to gain experience diving, never stop learning!
CamG Keep diving....keep training....keep learning!