An aspiring young chef must in the first instance get the proper training in classical before attempting modern techniques.
If the young chef want's to do fine dining, then they must acquire an apprenticeship with a reputable restaurant or hotel. I feel that too many young chefs are running before they can walk.The best advice that I can give is to listen, look, taste and then listen, look and taste again! Nobody expects commis chefs to be perfect but what they really need above ability is the proper can do attitude.