The experiences of six women who are successful in the world of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) are examined through lenses constructed from self-efficacy, resiliency, social capital, and identity. Each of the women successfully earned a doctorate in STEM, in spite of being the minority in a male-dominated career field. Examination of individual discoveries and experiences provides a platform for enhancing an understanding of what facilitates women scientists' achievements when pursuing meaningful work. All women in this study display, how social networks and personal characteristics have helped women scientists, become leaders and advance in their field. The findings of this research provides a scaffold for young students to will better understand, and appreciate how women scientists overcome many barriers, how women in science gained their strength, and fulfilled their purposeful leadership. [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://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
