The game is very different from EVE where basic frigates have worth in the endgame just as much as the Titans that, as you know, make STO ships look like toys. Also it takes only days flat out to top out in STO rather than 5-10 years for EVE (yes years). For those of you who dont know EVE a Ragnarock Titan Class with tier 5 pilot skills but no modules fitted at all has about 2 million HP on shields, 1 million HP hull and about 65000 structure.
Unless you really like running missions or following the storyline just burn your way to level 50 and start grinding rep for good kit, do fleet stf’s etc. You can always go back and do the storyline when you need a diversion.