I think this thread is about a "what if" type of game. Not that anyone wants to actually become a pro like described. Just what if you had the money listed, could you go pro, and if so what would you need to buy in the budget allotted. In other words this thread is just a game, and not really anybody asking for help.
Nothing wrong with, or anything stopping a person, from making extra money on the side with their camera. I would try to avoid weddings, and other such "lifetime" event gigs though, as they cannot easily be repeated if at all.
Casual portraits, baby photos, family portraits and such can always be done a second go if the first did not go so well. There are some amazing pieces of work, very very salable work, being done every day with less than professional gear.
But, since you have a good job that takes care of your financial needs why worry about making money at photography? Just asking.