Changing careers at 13 years into a job, is it realistic? (Buffalo)

I want to move from IT help-desk technician to something with more stability. I am in Buffalo, in case local advice matters. My family is supportive but nervous. How did you start?

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

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