In September 1958, a dedicated group of data processors (DP) got together to talk about common concerns of DP workers. That conference demonstrated to participants the value of sharing ideas, networking with fellow professionals, and learning about coming changes in the technology, practices, and management of information systems. This event sparked the formation of the The Computing and Data Processing Society of Canada. In 1968, the society changed its name to the current Canadian Information Processing Society.

In the mid-1980s, as the needs of information systems practitioners evolved, CIPS saw the need to develop a comprehensive professionalism program for the IT industry. The Information Systems Professional (I.S.P.) designation, was a direct result of CIPS’ focus on professionalism, and was introduced in May 1989.

In 2008 CIPS introduced the Information Technology Certified Professional (ITCP) designation, which is directed specifically to senior IT practitioners and academics who in addition to their IT knowledge understand how to effectively utilize and apply their organizational experience to achieving organizational excellenc