Ideas for learning projects?

I have a degree and a help desk background. I have a lot of experience with Linux and virtualization from hobby projects.

I want to start on a new project that will help me build strong foundational skills to prepare for the cce exam and for moving my career into dfir.

My question is 2-fold:

What might be a good project?

And what skills should I look to prioratize / develop?

computerforensics ideas