I'm wholly convinced that augmented reality will be the next "wave" of personal computing within the next few years.
The technology required to make a compelling AR headset seems to be converging rapidly: ARM-based SOCs continue to get more efficient and more powerful, smartphones (often the 'companion device' to the headset) have compute/memory capabilities rivaling relatively recent desktop computers, Li-ion battery density is increasing at a steady rate, and microLED technology is quickly becoming compelling.
As someone with a strong software engineering and advanced mathematics background, but no background in augmented reality, how does one "break into" this industry?
Of course you can make the case that your experience with computer graphics, databases, VR, etc. are preparation for AR. Getting your own AR or VR headset to play with after hours would be good. It never hurts to do a "side project" and even if that doesn't involve AR handset hardware, you can do something metaversal with phones or that otherwise intersects with AR technology.