Once upon a time, I was a machinist. I did this for about 10 years. I enjoyed working with metal, and I still do, but the repetitive nature of running production parts wore me out mentally.

So, I bought an old Dell server and started teaching myself Networking, Linux, VMware, KVM, Databases, Websites and anything else I could get my hands on. I built a portfolio of my best projects and started applying for jobs. It took countless applications, but I eventually got a QA position at a local startup. The rest is history as they say.

My portfolio is what sealed the deal, and I got a job offer from the only interview I had. Unless you are getting into a trade like lineman or trucking where they will train you, a portfolio is the best way to set yourself apart without experience. I took a 50% reduction in pay. But I was never really money focused, I learned that if you enjoy doing something, the money will follow.