Thats great to hear!
Glad things are working out for the best.
Isnt it liberating to cut the old ties to a career that wasnt a good fit, and try something you love? Its especially satisfying when you can get paid for doing something you enjoy.

So far my schooling for marine systems engineering, while trying at times has been a pretty amazing experience.

Just this past week I passed my ABYC (American Boat and Yacht Council) Marine Diesel mechanic certification exam. 83% or higher is passing.
Big test, lots of stress. 1 down 2 more to go. (AC electrical and Refrigeration)

At this point I'm roughly halfway to graduation, then its off into the real world.

Would like to get a job on a boat somewhere, and eventually finish my hours for my captains license. I'm already about 3/4 of the way there. Then maybe get my own sailboat and do charters or perhaps just take the girlfriend and sail around the world fixing peoples boats for cash to live on.

Not sure yet.

I'm definitely happier now than I was when I was on my IT "career track".
The money was good, but the job satisfaction was low.

So far no regrets, glad I took the leap.