Getting started in repair

[xargos]

Okay, so this is probably somewhere between on topic and off topic.

I've tinkered with some different electronics for a while, but other than with personal computers (which are very easy to work on since they're so modular) I've never fully delved into more than assembling kits or doing relatively basic repairs on things that aren't very high powered. It isn't for lack of interest, though, but rather not knowing where to start. I've hoped to find some classes in my area, but between the equipment that I prefer being older and a general lack of people repairing things at all the classes don't seem too common.

Where did any of you get your starts in actually fixing equipment? Was it strictly through DIY efforts, some kind of classes, or something else?