This dissertation is an exploration of leader identity development and women in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) college academic classrooms. While there continues to be research promoting diversity in STEM professions, women remain underrepresented in STEM disciplines, leadership positions, and for this specific study, the college academic classroom. This dissertation represents an opportunity for women in STEM college students to reflect on their experiences in STEM academic spaces and communities, while self-exploring factors that shape their leader identity development. The research utilized a basic qualitative research design to understand the participant's authentic experiences within the academic environment. Conducting semi-structured interviews with participants explored the challenges, experiences, and perceptions of women college students' classroom experiences and their leader identity development. The findings of this study contribute to a deeper understanding of the factors that hinder or facilitate women's leader identity development in STEM disciplines. This research sought to inform the development of targeted interventions and strategies to support the leadership development of women in STEM college students. The findings contribute to enhancing academic curriculum design, faculty development, and higher education institutional policies that can promote gender equity and support leadership development within STEM disciplines. This dissertation sought to bridge the existing gap in knowledge regarding women college students' STEM leadership development and classroom experiences. By exploring the complex connection between the STEM classroom and women college students' leadership development, this research aimed to offer insights that can support STEM departments and faculty towards creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]