NewbyFirestarter

Hi... I'm in desperate need of advice!!!! Please help!!
I am absolutely dying to start a career in pyrotechnics!!!
there's not really much else to say as it is simply a burning desire of mine!! (excuse the punn!)

I have always had an absolute love and fascination with fire and explosions (as i'm sure you all have), and coupled with my diploma and love for TV and film production the only way forward for me is to become a part of this industry!

Like i said I need some advice and some information about it!!
Firstly I know that pyrotechnics is a specialised field of visual effects.
I know a little bit of the techniques used to create certain effects but only what i've picked up from documentaries and "making of"special features on DVD packs.
I also have a bit of a background in chemistry and electronics, having studied both at school and during my studies for electrronic engineering, and a very stable foundation in TV and film production.
BUT.... i do not have a qualification in pyro specifically or for that matter in any special effects outside those me and my fellow students acheived during our studies in Video Technology

I figure the only way i can achieve my dream is to do it by apprenticeship or to work my way from the bottom of a company to my desired position... this is something i am MORE than willing and able to do (how can i stress this more???...MORE THAN MORE THAN WILLING AND ABLE)

To put it lightly i'll do anything to follow my dream and make it a reality (and as my friends will tell you when i say i'll do anything... i mean it!)

The only problem is... short of phoning up every company or individual in the industry and asking them for a job as a runner or aprentice (which i fully intend on doing...apologies in advance if this is going to irritate you) I don't actually know how to go about realising my dream.

I figure i need some info on the actual industry, how it operates and exactly how it does what it does.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE can anyone help me?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?!