Plus you start way at the bottom. I was sick of software and though about going into photography. But I realized I'd be shelling out a lot for equipment, schooling/certificates (unless I could find an apprenticeship). Then I'd have to build back up to a decent income.

I knew another Computer Scientist who got his EMT certificate and worked in an ambulance service for two years, but ended up coming back to IT.

If I personally leave the work force again, it would be after getting funding for a PhD. I'd gladly take a greatly reduced wage if I could be on my way towards teaching and researching in a university.