Sockmonkey, aren't you a 3d modeler or animator? That's something that I always wanted to do.
I'll give you the programming side of the IT world. I'm a developer and have been one for about ten years now. Your best bet to get a decent job is to get a degree but it's not a necessity. There are other diplomas and so forth that you can get. CTI comes to mind. They've got a one year course but it's crazy expensive. They help you find a job afterwards though.
Programming is a taxing job and at most work places you'll be under constant pressure and deadlines. Everything keeps changing in the computer world and you'll be expected to keep up to date. Plus you'll have to know more than one language. It takes a lot of time. However if you are at the right company then it's enjoyable. A big bonus is that the money is good. Do know that it's for a reason though and I've known a lot of programmers who after years of programming decided it's not for them.
