Career change after a layoff, where to begin? - any advice?

After 11 years as a software tester I am thinking about moving into a different field. I am in Madison, in case local advice matters. My family is supportive but nervous. Did you take a pay cut?

Try a small project in the new field before committing. It told me a lot about whether I would enjoy it.

I took a small pay cut for a year, and it was worth it for the growth afterwards.