I'd say you're qualified, but I wouldn't recommend you rush into applying for jobs just yet. I'd take some time to tackle a couple personal projects. That's the most significant way a candidate can distinguish themselves. Since you're considering entering the industry from a non-traditional route I'd say distinguishing yourself is particularly important.
Here's the general roadmap I'd follow if I were in your shoes:
1) Learn a hipper language, VB.NET is great for getting things done, but it won't impress anyone. Java, Python and Ruby are all pragmatic choices here. Furthering your C++ or C skills would also be good. Objective C and C# are good languages too, but they more or less lock you into the Apple and Microsoft ecosystems respectively.
2) Learn version control (git is the most popular/pragmatic choice) and host your code on one of the popular online code repositories (GitHub is the most popular, BitBucket is cool too). You will be using some kind of source control wherever you work. If you already know the ins and outs of it you will be a step ahead of most entry level applicants. This will also the first step of #4.
3) Build something fun. If you work on something that interests you you'll be more motivated which will help you with #1 and #2.
4) Document what you've done. Take screenshots, make a homepage (through GitHub or on your own), give it some polish. Put a link to your GitHub profile or personal homepage on your resume.
Going through all of that will take some time (6-18 months? depends on how dedicated you are), but it will pay off. Having a GitHub link on your resume will get it past the initial screen. Having experience on personal projects will give you things to talk about at the interview. Those two things alone will set you ahead of every other entry level applicant.
Good luck =)
