[ID Discuss] Guidance for someone interested in your field

[pnason at rcn.com]

Hello!

I am new to the list, and am interested in getting into
Interaction Design.  I have a degree in Industrial
Engineering, and my course work included human factors and
human-computer interaction.  I have been working as a
Manufacturing Engineer, and am currently a Production Manager,
and I have no real software design experience.  I am currently
reading "The Inmates are Running the Asylum" by Alan Cooper,
am am really enjoying it.  

As people working in this field, what suggestions might you
have for someone wanting to become an Interaction Designer? 
Do I need to go back for a masters degree?  Is there anything
else I can try?  

I apologize if this is not the right forum for this post. 
Thanks for any advice you can give me.

Patricia Nason