If it is a man’s world, nobody told Camosun success-story grad Shelley Zapp.
Zapp is president of UNIT4 Business Software, a subsidiary of one of the top global leaders in business software, where she manages accounts for all of North America. And while it seems rare to see a woman in Zapp’s position, she says that the computer-technology industry is welcoming to everyone.
“I had a job before I even finished my program,” she says, pointing out that even when she graduated more than 20 years ago, being a woman never posed a problem in the job market. “I don’t think the industry has ever been male-dominated. If I look back on my graduating class, I bet it was a good 30 percent women.”
Zapp—who won Camosun’s distinguished alumni award this year—graduated from Camosun’s computer technology program in 1984. Looking back on why she chose a field of study that was in its infancy at the time, Zapp recalls that a career in computer technology was an exciting prospect.
“Computers were just starting to come out onto the market,” she says. “We didn’t even take computers in high school at that time, and, of course, no one owned a computer. But, it intrigued me. Computer programming was like solving a puzzle.”
Although Zapp says the industry is gender neutral, she does admit that it’s uncommon for a computer programmer to become head of a company.
“About 90 percent of CEOs come from sales and nine percent from finance, but it’s rare they come from fields like computer programming,” she says. “We are not always the best extroverts.”
But, in developing exceptional business skills, which Zapp attributes to her time at Camosun, she was able to rise to the top of her field.
Zapp’s success, combined with her commitment to the community, makes her a well-known leader in the local tech industry. Ken Hartman, acting chair of the computer science department, has seen firsthand how Zapp gives back to her alma mater.
“Shelley is one of those important people willing to provide her time and expertise on various volunteer boards and committees,” says Hartman.
Serving on the Program Advisory Committee, a group of industry professionals working with instructors to give insight into changes, trends, and opportunities that relate to Camosun programs, Zapp has given Hartman’s department “great support and encouragement as well as important feedback on industry trends,” he says.
Along with her accomplishments, Zapp’s contagiously positive attitude leaves a lasting impression on everyone who meets her.
“She’s really hard working,” says Camosun alumni relations coordinator Angie Bowles. “She’s a real sweetheart and an amazing woman.”