A St. Louis nonprofit says women in its latest career cohort are turning new skills into raises, promotions and job changes, with average pay gains topping $22,500. Rung for Women says the eighth cohort posted an average salary increase of $22,592, a striking result for a program aimed at women earning $50,000 or less.
As reported by St. Louis Magazine, 71% of the eighth cohort received a raise, promotion or new job, while 24 salary increases generated about $540,000 in annual gains. Across its six most recent cohorts, Rung reported 70 salary increases totaling more than $1.4 million, with an average increase of $20,381, or 53%.
There is an important asterisk attached to those impressive numbers: They come from internal data provided by Rung, not an independent evaluation or a regionwide salary survey. Even so, the figures offer a rare local snapshot of what can happen when workforce training is paired with coaching, networking and support that helps participants stay focused on a career pivot.
Rung Treats Career Mobility As More Than A Certificate
Rung's official FAQ describes a 14-month program for working women making under $50,000, with roughly 10 hours of weekly participation. Members receive training and career coaching at no cost, along with financial education, counseling, childcare and other wellness supports designed to make a demanding career change more realistic.
That broader approach shows up in the stories of participants. Kyra Jefferson told St. Louis Magazine that her salary has more than doubled after two promotions and a move into community banking, while Ebony Hartfield earned a data analytics certification and began preparing for conversations with potential employers.
The Program Is Focused On Women Facing A Steeper Wealth Climb
Black women made up 70% of Rung's 2024 cohort members, according to the nonprofit's 2025 annual report. That demographic focus matters in a region where access to higher-paying technology, manufacturing and management roles can shape not only an individual's paycheck but also household stability and long-term wealth.
Rung's next challenge is proving that the gains can keep compounding as the organization expands. Its 2026 programming includes work around a 10th cohort, and the nonprofit is also testing shorter training meant to help women add artificial-intelligence skills without leaving their current jobs.
