Power

You'll feel powerful. Wielding a tool that looks like the Hammer of Thor, bending and twisting the laws of physics to your will.

But in terms of social or political power? Not so much.

Welders are craftsmen. They work independently and in small teams. They're sent out to many different locations—sometimes indoors, sometimes outdoors, sometimes in the coldest, most remote places imaginable—and they weld.

 
It's like staring at the surface of the moon. (Source)

If you're a really good welder, then maybe you can supervise the team. You can explain to little Ned Newbie why his welding seam isn't supposed to have as many lumps and craters as Edward James Olmos.

But you're never going to have a big office. Or a perky secretary who brings you coffee and zesty morning quips. You don't really get to order people around or make world-altering decisions.

You weld things.

But hey, you still look awesome in that outfit.