Finding a path

My route in IT has for the most part been in operations.  That is not to say that I did not spend time programming or performing non-operations related procedures.  It does mean that my career path has been in IT operations.  I started as a Systems Engineer, proceeded to Systems Manager, tacked on Communications and later managed IT operations.  When I started my company it was to help with operational problems.

The problem as one of the recruiters I spoke with mentioned is that there are not many operational positions available right now.  You have a glut of System Administrators and Technicians in the Central Florida region.  IT Operations Manager positions are even rarer.

Should I continue down the route I know and wait for the positions to open or should I consider other options.  I do have some time on my hands now that I am unemployed.  This gives me time to reflect and take a closer look at my skills and things I enjoy doing.  It's hard thinking about redirecting a career but sometimes you have to look at the environment and how it has changed.  I don't want to be the best buggy whip in an age of automobiles.  A little extreme I know.  But in essence, a good time for introspection.