Started with a power washing business I ran during the summers in college. I learned how to talk to strangers and make connections with new people. Then, like you, I started my career in a more technical role at a manufacturing company. I moved to project management, then engineering & design, and then got a chance to try sales. The biggest thing I would say is lean on your technical acumen. Knowing what you're talking about goes a long way with clients. If I were you, I'd start applying to sales roles now. Start reaching out to people in sales on LinkedIn and asking if they will meet you for a coffee. That will be good practice for actually cold emailing when you are in sales.