I don't know what area you live in, but that sucks to lose your job. I started out as a mechanic for a number of years. Got a technical degree and then figured out there was a lot more money to be made in the oil and gas industry. I really enjoy what I do. Although if I had the capital/balls to jump ship I would try to open a restaurant as a side gig. I love cooking/BBQing. If it wasn't such a hard thing to start up maybe I would venture there. Times are tough and I pray you find a good job man 
I went to culinary school. The keys are good product & proper food costing. Your yields. Meaning you buy a piece of meat for X amount. How much do you sell it for? That is buying a piece of meat, gas, electricity, workers pay, insurance, waste, theft etc. Then you estimate cost of your dish including a profit..
But it all has to taste good. When it does, call Guy. Dinners Drive-Ins and Dives to put yourself on the map
