Some want to be their own boss and strike out on their own, opening a welding business of their own. Or maybe they've had several years of experience and want to try something different. Or continuing their education and obtain a degree in welding engineering. Most welding engineers will tell you that having a strong working knowledge of the skill makes them better at their jobs. If you like to deal with people, perhaps sales of welding equipment and consumables might be a path you'd choose.
Distributors often prefer to hire employees who have a strong welding background.
It is much easier to sell a new piece of equipment if you are familiar with the welding processes and can understand what the customer needs. If teaching is a goal, welding instructors need not only the book knowledge to handle a class, but also the skill level necessary to pass along the techniques. Metal is a medium that some artists choose to create designs in jewelry and sculptures. And they are able to carry out their ideas much easier if they can handle a torch and know how various metals will react to heat. Consider technical writing.