It has been written that since 2001, there has not been any significant progress and the glass ceiling is still intact. Women are still underrepresented in top positions (Anonymous, 2004). If this is true, the glass ceiling presents a major barrier between women and their desire to advance into executive or senior management positions. In addition to the glass ceiling, women can also face other challenges that prevent their climb to these elusive top positions. Some of the challenges are promotability, balance of work and family, organizational culture and gender discrimination. The purpose of this research was to explore these glass ceiling issues in detail. The research and literature reviewed suggests that in 2012, women still face great difficulties to their entry into and advancement through the professional ranks. The research also provided results that would lead one to believe there are cracks in the ceiling and that women, are indeed, moving up the corporate ladder. A glimpse into some of the industries that have made progress with shattering the glass ceiling was also provided. Recommendations were made to organizations with regard to shattering the glass ceiling and the benefits of inclusion to their success. [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.]