I could be wrong about this, but for the most part, you're probably gonna want to get a feel for things first. There's plenty of factions to choose from, all of which have plenty to offer. One of those factions might even be the ticket to get some of the things you'd like to see added sooner than later.
Not to say you can't successfully blaze your own trail from the get go, it's how to get your *insert addition here* to fit in with the setting and how the setting will benefit that's most key. Of course, if you're willing to take the time to do so, it's completely possible to offer things clear on up to your own faction with your own unique tech/ships/etc. Possibly, yet not for the faint of heart.
Don't take this as me shooting down your desire to leave a lasting impression on SARP as a whole, take it as the opinion of one new member to another. My two cents for what it's worth.
It's good to have you here and I look forward to seeing what you have to offer.