Pivoting from dental hygienist to something new - what worked for you?

After 8 years as a dental hygienist I am thinking about moving into a different field. I do not usually post, so bear with me. I have a little time and a small budget for training. Did you take a pay cut?

I began with informational chats, then a short online course, then a related entry-level role. It took about 5 months.

Keep everything in writing and save the confirmation numbers. It made the follow-up calls so much easier.