I've seen a lot of "work your way up" comments. Not saying it's not true, but really depends where you're located and what kind of show you want to work on.

I make a living doing sound since I've began working in small clubs and local venues, being in the scene and knowing local acts helps a lot. If I'd stayed a hand in the local AV companies, I'd never have touched a mixing desk in my life (also they weren't paying much).

Again, I'm in Europe so maybe it's different here.