The Music That Carried a Generation: Mark Humphries Orchestra to Perform in Support of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum

An afternoon of big-band music will celebrate the spirit of the Second World War generation while helping preserve the stories of those who trained, served, and sacrificed.

BRANDON, MB -October 21, 2026 The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM) invites Manitobans to step back into the era of 40’s big-band music for a special performance by the acclaimed Mark Humphries Orchestra, in support of the Museum and its mission to preserve Canada’s aviation heritage.

During the Second World War, music was more than entertainment. It was a connection to home, a welcome escape from uncertainty, and a source of comfort and joy during some of the most difficult years in modern history. The sounds of big bands filled dance halls, military stations, and radios, offering moments of normalcy to a population whose lives had been transformed by war.

For the thousands of young aircrew from Canada and around the world, who trained across the country under the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan, the dangers of war were never far away. Even before reaching the front lines, training carried very real risks. Many lost their lives during training, far from their families and the homes they hoped to see again.

Yet amid the uncertainty, there was music. There were dances, friendships, laughter, and moments of happiness that helped sustain a generation.

“One of the things that stays with me about working at the Museum is the knowledge that these were young people with hopes, dreams, families, and futures,” says Zoe McQuinn, Director General and CEO of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum. “They trained together, ate together, and found moments to enjoy life together. But not everyone came home. Music was part of their lives, and bringing that music to audiences today is a wonderful way to connect with their stories.”

The RCAF Streamliners
An appreciative audience of the RCAF Streamliners
The Mark Humphries Orchestra

The Mark Humphries Orchestra brings the energy and unmistakable sound of the big-band era to the stage. With a longstanding following across Manitoba, the orchestra celebrates the rich musical traditions of swing and jazz that defined a generation.

For CATPM, the concert is also an opportunity to invite the community to become part of preserving an important chapter of Canadian history.

Located at the Brandon Municipal Airport in a historic wartime training hangar, the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum preserves the aircraft, artifacts, photographs, and personal stories of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. The Museum is also home to Canada’s largest collection of flying Second World War training aircraft, keeping this remarkable aviation heritage alive for future generations.

“Every ticket purchased is an act of support for the Museum and the work we do,” adds McQuinn. “We have a responsibility to remember not only the achievements of those who served, but also their humanity, their courage, and the sacrifices made by them and their families. We hope people will join us for a wonderful performance, enjoy this extraordinary music, and help ensure these stories are never forgotten.”

Event Details

Performance: Mark Humphries Orchestra in Support of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum
Date: Sunday, November 1, 2026
Time: 2:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Location: Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium, 205 20th Street (James Ehnes Way), Brandon, Manitoba
Tickets: Adults $40; Students $20; Children 6 and under free. Prices include taxes and service charges.
Purchase tickets: https://www.wmca.ca/events/captm-benefit-concert-feat-the-mark-humphries-orchestra-2026
Box Office: 204-728-9510

Whether you’re a lifelong fan of big-band music, a lover of history, or simply looking for a memorable evening out, this is an opportunity to enjoy exceptional live music while supporting an important Manitoba institution.

Join us for the music. Help us preserve their stories.

About the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum

The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum, located at the Brandon Municipal Airport, is dedicated to collecting, preserving, restoring, and sharing the history of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and commemorating those who served and sacrificed. Operating from a historic Second World War training hangar, the Museum combines exhibits, archives, educational programming, aircraft restoration, and an active flying collection to connect visitors with Canada’s aviation heritage.

Media Contact:
Zoe McQuinn
Director General & CEO
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum
directorgeneral@CATPM.onmicrosoft.com | 204-727-2444

How Can I (YOU!) Support the CATPM?

Here are some ways to support the museum, one of Brandon’s big attractions and a true ‘hidden gem’!

The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum is unique, being the only museum in the world (well, that we know of) dedicated to preserving and educating about the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan in Canada during World War II and the important role it played in the nationhood of Canada and in allied victory over axis powers. We are an active hangar with flightworthy aircraft, working vehicles, a large archive collection, and restorations, and we are run by volunteers and a small staff.

We are also a National Historic Site, a Manitoba Signature Museum, and a Manitoba Star Attraction!

Here are a few ways you can support us!

  • Come in and visit – be sure to share your experience and any photos you take!
  • Become a museum member (did you know that membership in one ‘signature museum‘ gets you free admission to the others?)
  • Purchase a flight in one of our vintage WWII aircraft!
  • Make a purchase from our gift shop!
  • Become a volunteer! No special experience needed!
  • Make a donation! (we accept monetary and artifact donations!)
  • Buy coffee/donuts for our staff! (the staff made me add that one 😉

However you decide, we can use your support!

Fleet Finch in flight
Kids in the cockpit of a Cessna Crane
RCAF Memorial Wall at sunset

 A Big Announcement!

Something special is coming to Brandon this fall.

Join us Sunday, November 1 for the CATPM Benefit Concert featuring the Mark Humphries Orchestra at the Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium.

It’s an afternoon of wonderful music in support of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial and the stories, aircraft and history we are working to preserve for generations to come.

Sunday, November 1
2:00 p.m.
Western Manitoba Centennial Auditorium
Adults $40 | Students $20

Gather some friends and spend an afternoon with us.

Every ticket helps support the Museum.

Tickets available now: https://www.wmca.ca/events/captm-benefit-concert-feat-the-mark-humphries-orchestra-2026

Join Our Team: Facilities & Operations Manager

The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum is growing, and we’re looking for a Facilities & Operations Manager to join our team.

This is a new role at an exciting time for CATPM. Working closely with the Director General & CEO, the Facilities & Operations Manager will help oversee our historic facilities and grounds, day-to-day museum operations, maintenance and safety, contractors, and operational volunteers — while helping us prepare for a significant period of redevelopment.

We’re looking for someone who can plan ahead, solve problems, work with people, and isn’t afraid to be hands-on when needed.

If you’re interested in helping care for an important piece of Canadian history while helping us build for the future, we’d love to hear from you.

Read the full job description and learn how to apply below.

Facilities & Operations Manager  

Reports to: Director General & CEO  

Supervises/Coordinates:  

  • Facilities  
  • Seasonal operations staff   
  • Maintenance contractors   
  • Grounds contractors   
  • Operational volunteers   
  • Building service providers   

About the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum 

The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM) is a nationally significant aviation museum located at the Brandon Municipal Airport in Brandon, Manitoba. Operating from an original Second World War air training hangar, CATPM is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and legacy of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and commemorating the thousands of RCAF personnel who lost their lives during the Second World War. 

Our site includes historic aircraft, extensive archival and artifact collections, the RCAF WWII Memorial, historic buildings and an active flying and restoration program. The Museum is supported by a dedicated community of staff, volunteers, members, donors and partners. 

CATPM is entering an exciting period of growth and redevelopment, creating an opportunity to strengthen how we care for our historic site while building a sustainable and engaging museum for future generations. 

Position Purpose  

The Facilities & Operations Manager is responsible for the safe, efficient, and effective operation of the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum’s facilities, infrastructure, and operational systems. This position provides leadership for volunteers, facilities maintenance, contractor coordination, health and safety, and operational planning while ensuring the Museum is prepared to deliver an outstanding experience for visitors, staff, and volunteers every day.  

As CATPM enters a significant redevelopment phase, this role will play a key role in coordinating construction impacts, maintaining museum operations, and supporting long-term facilities planning.  

Key Responsibilities  

Facilities Management  

  • Historic hangar   
  • Museum buildings   
  • Grounds   
  • Utilities & Security  
  • Maintenance planning   
  • Preventative maintenance  
  • Asset management   
  • Equipment inventories   

Museum Operations  

  • Daily operational readiness   
  • Opening and closing procedures   
  • Operational planning   
  • Event operations   
  • Site coordination   
  • Vendor coordination   

Volunteer Leadership  

  • Recruit operational volunteers.   
  • Schedule volunteers.   
  • Train volunteers.   
  • Recognize volunteer contributions.   
  • Build a positive volunteer culture.   
  • Support restoration and operational teams.   

Health, Safety & Security  

  • Emergency planning   
  • Occupational health and safety   
  • Accessibility compliance   
  • Security systems   
  • Building inspections   
  • Incident reporting   
  • Risk management   
  • Fire safety   

Maintenance  

  • Building systems   
  • Grounds   
  • Snow removal   
  • Landscaping   
  • HVAC coordination   
  • Minor repairs   
  • Capital maintenance planning   
  • Equipment servicing   

Leadership 

  • Supervise seasonal facilities staff.   
  • Manage contractors and service providers.   
  • Develop operational procedures.   
  • Prepare annual maintenance plans.   
  • Recommend capital improvements.   
  • Plan operational budgets with DG/CEO.   
  • Monitor operational performance.   

Ideal Qualifications  

  • Facilities management, operations, trades, engineering technology, project management, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.   
  • Experience leading teams, volunteers, or contractors.   
  • Strong project management and organizational skills.   
  • Knowledge of building systems, maintenance planning, and health and safety requirements.   
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to build positive relationships with volunteers, contractors, and community partners.   
  • Experience managing budgets, procurement, and operational planning.   
  • Ability to think strategically while remaining hands-on when needed.   
  • A valid driver’s licence.  

Compensation & Benefits 

Salary: $55,000–$65,000 per year, commensurate with experience and qualifications. 

In addition to salary, CATPM offers: 

Health & Benefits: CATPM will contribute 50% of the cost of an agreed-upon employee benefit plan through an approved provider.  

Retirement Savings: CATPM contribute, subject to applicable plan and CRA requirements.  

Vacation: Three weeks of paid vacation annually.  

Hours: 40 hours per week. As an operational museum, CATPM requires on-site support during some weekends, events, and other operational periods. The regular work schedule will therefore include flexibility and will be discussed with the successful candidate.  

Professional Development: Opportunities for professional development relevant to the position and CATPM’s operations. 

How To Apply: 

Interested candidates are invited to submit a cover letter and résumé outlining their experience and interest in the position. 

Please send applications by email to: 

Zoe McQuinn, Director General & CEO 
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum 
CATPMuseum@catpm.onmicrosoft.com 

Please use “Facilities & Operations Manager” in the subject line. 

Applications will be reviewed as they are received. We thank all applicants for their interest; only those selected for an interview will be contacted. 

Application deadline: October 15, 2026. 

Something New in the Hangar: CATPM Welcomes the Norseman Home

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Something New in the Hangar: CATPM Welcomes the Norseman Home

BRANDON, MB – There is something new, very big and very yellow, in the hangar at the Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum.

After nearly two years of planning, coordination and hard work, a Noorduyn Norseman has arrived at CATPM in Brandon, adding one of Canada’s most iconic aircraft to the Museum’s growing collection.

The Norseman has long been an important aircraft for CATPM because its story connects the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and wartime aviation.

“This is an exciting day for our Museum,” said Zoe McQuinn, Director General & CEO of CATPM. “The Norseman is unmistakably Canadian, and its story takes us from wartime training and service to bush flying and Canada’s North. After almost two years of work to bring it home, seeing it finally sitting in our historic hangar is pretty extraordinary. We can’t wait for people to come and see it.”

First developed in Canada in 1935 by Robert C. Noorduyn, the Norseman was designed for the demanding conditions of Canada’s North. Its rugged construction and versatility helped make it one of Canada’s most recognizable bush aircraft.

During the Second World War, the Royal Canadian Air Force initially ordered 38 Norsemans for use within the BCATP, where they served in roles including transport, navigator training and wireless operator training. Approximately 100 Norsemans ultimately entered RCAF service during the war.

For Jeff Bell, CATPM Head Pilot and Chair of the Flying and Restoration Committees, the arrival represents the culmination of an almost two-year project.

“This has been almost two years in the making. There has been a tremendous amount of work behind the scenes and a lot of people have contributed along the way. To finally have the Norseman here in Brandon and inside the hangar is a significant moment for everyone who helped make it happen.”

It Took a Team to Bring It Home

CATPM extends its deepest thanks to Dennis Mockford, Curt Enns and the entire Wings Over Kississing team, whose extraordinary support helped make the Norseman’s journey to Brandon possible.

Wings Over Kississing hosted the CATPM team, shared their knowledge and expertise, provided equipment and hands-on assistance, and worked alongside the Museum through the many challenges involved in bringing an aircraft of this size home.

“We simply could not have done this without them,” McQuinn said. “Every time we encountered a challenge, people pulled together to find a solution. The generosity of Wings Over Kississing and the wider aviation community, their time, expertise, equipment and willingness to help, has been remarkable. We are deeply grateful.”

CATPM also sincerely thanks Mr. Menno Bergen, Mr. Bill Jackson, Mr. Ike Enns, The Pas Flying Club, and Mr. Rodney Kozer who contributed to the project and helped make the aircraft’s arrival possible.  We also thank the sincere help of our friends at Canadian Warplane Heritage, and Mr. Peter Stewart for his assistance

Come Meet the Norseman

The Norseman is now inside CATPM’s historic Second World War hangar and ready to meet its first visitors.

The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum is open every day this fall from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.

Media Contact:
Zoe McQuinn, Director General & CEO
Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum & RCAF WWII Memorial
204-727-2444 or DirectorGeneral@CATPM.onmicrosoft.com

Black-and-white wartime photograph of an RCAF Noorduyn Norseman on a snow-covered airfield, with several airmen standing beside the aircraft and other military aircraft in the background.
The Norseman in wartime service.