How do I get started as a Business Analyst?

[Ashish]

Hello!
I would appreciate some pointers as to how I can go about securing a
Business Analyst position. My educational background includes a
Bachelor's degree in Electrical Engineering and Master's in Scientific
and Technical Communications (University of Minnesota, 2003). I have
been a software programmer (Visual Basic, Visual C++)several moons ago,
but have mostly been a Technical Writer and Editor. Companies i've
worked for include Global Sources (Philippines), Medtronic and Unisys
Corp. I'm currently a Technical Writer with Guidant Corp.
My current job includes developing a department-wide Change Tracking
System, and I realized I was doing at least part of a Business
Analyst's job (Requirements Gathering, Reports). More so, I am
thoroughly enjoying it, and was wondering if I can formally enter this
profession. What I like about this current BA-like stint is that i feel
i'm in the midst of things rather than at the periphery--as in
Technical Writing.
I've seen quite a few posts about Training in Microsoft/IBM tools etc,
and would appreciate a objective viewpoint on these, and the BA
profession in general.
Thank you for your time!
Ashish