The rapid and dynamic surgical environment requires leaders that can help guide their teams to desired outcomes while delivering patient-centered care. The need for early implementation of leadership curricula has been identified; however, most available leadership curricula are tailored for faculty and not embedded within surgery training. The ideal intervention(s) to close this gap while addressing the unique challenges of the demanding surgical training are yet to be identified. This manuscript reviews the current status of residency leadership programs and the relationship of leadership to other essential aspects for optimal training of future surgeon leaders. The use of best practice medical education frameworks is key to help guide effective and sustainable evidence-based leadership curricula. The collaboration, standardization, and publication of leadership curricula for surgery residents can serve as prototypes to address specific needs at different training institutions with the aim of equipping surgeons with the necessary leadership tools for their success.