Wanted to share my experience as a first time H1b case, with previous F1 visa. This thread helped me navigate the process, hope my experience helps others as well.
10/09 - Entered waiting queue after qualifying for interview waiver.
11/09 - Got email from Ottawa consulate to send documents.
17/09 - Mailed documents via Canada post
19/09 - Delivered
24/09 - Status changed to Received on ceac site
25/09 - Approved
26/09 - Issued
01/10 - Picked up Passport
A few things that might be useful:
1) You qualify for interview waiver even if you had a different class of visa previously (except visitor visa). In my case I had an expired F1, and was applying for a first time H1B. I had to call the consulate and confirm because the questionnaire that comes up during appointment booking seemed confusing.
2) Some consulates process applications faster than others. Check for these, and you can apply to them if you have a tight timeframe, which was the situation with me.