Everyone is different. Some people manage to hit the ground running and others have a very long learning curve.
I have a stitch regulator but no robotics and have no desire for them. Depending on what machine you have, the robotics can add a lot of weight to the machine head so robotics can impede your ability to FMQ comfortably. I loved LA quilting from the moment I laid hands on one so I was comfortable right from the get go. Proficiency is a tough call. I am happy with my work but know there is always room for improvement.