Pretty much anything can be used for modelling - I use Max just fine, and if you have even the basics down, that'll stand you in good stead to pick it back up again.
That said, making ships for FSO is a big ask - modeling, UVing, making LoDs, various different types of textures beyond standards diffuse maps, then converting to pof... None of them are enormously difficult in and of themselves, but pulling it ask together can be time consuming and noted than a little intimidating if you're not adv experienced modder.
My advice, if what you really want to do is jump straight into making new content for FS is to learn FRED. New ships are fantastic, but at the end of the day, they're never going to be anything more than props in missions - it's always going to be FRED that generates playable content.
Personally, in your shoes, I'd do the FRED walkthrough, and then take a crack at creating something like the recently released "A Walk in the Sun" mimicampaign (see the highlights) - a few missions, nothing too complex, but still fun and very achievable.
Most of all, just try to enjoy it! Make something you like, a story you want to tell. That's why we're all here, ultimately.