Leadership development is an essential practice for aspiring leaders. If leaders are to perform at their best, and position themselves for future growth opportunities, the development of change leadership skills is essential. This study explores the knowledge, motivation, and organizational needs of aspiring community college leaders at the Great Lakes System to develop change leadership skills. The research in this study is concentrated on aspiring leaders in a community college system in the Midwest. This organization is in the midst of considerable change in response to changing student demographics, innovations in technology, and fluctuations in fiscal resources. The study was grounded in a mixed methods research design, using both a quantitative survey and qualitative interview data collection methods. All participants were sourced from a leadership development list serve. The results of the research and analysis showed that the future of the community college depends on the adequate preparation of aspiring leaders with multifaceted skill sets, shared characteristics, and the ability to inspire and influence others effectively to guide people through times of change. The interviews and survey data led to conclusions that there are complex challenges for aspiring community college leaders, future leaders will inherit these challenges and it is necessary they are prepared for this role. [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.]