The Commonwealth Air Training Plan Museum (CATPM), Canada’s only museum solely dedicated to the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan and a designated National Historic Site, is proud to announce the appointment of Zoe McQuinn as its new Director General.
Zoe brings over two decades of experience in museum leadership, education, and international cultural work. Most recently the Director of Development at the Manitoba Museum, she led major accessibility initiatives, secured funding for transformative capital projects, and championed community-rooted storytelling.
She now takes the helm at CATPM to guide the museum through an ambitious, multi-phase redevelopment that includes structural restoration, exhibit renewal, and national partnership-building.
“Zoe brings an extraordinary blend of academic insight, international museum experience, and heartfelt community engagement. Her leadership marks an exciting new chapter for CATPM as we honour our past and build for the future.”
— John McNarry, President, Board of Directors, CATPM
“We’re thrilled to welcome Zoe to the CATPM team. Her passion for inclusive storytelling and her vision for revitalizing this important National Historic Site are exactly what we need as we move into a bold and inspiring new era for the museum.”
— Stephen Hayter, Executive Director, CATPM
Zoe also brings a global perspective to her new role.
From 2019 to 2022, she worked in Egypt with colleagues at the Grand Egyptian Museum (GEM) to support its monumental opening. Her work focused on interpretive planning, exhibition development, and institutional capacity building. Prior to that, she held key roles in the Learning & Programs departments at the Royal Ontario Museum, where she developed innovative programming and exhibition strategies with a focus on accessibility, sustainability, and community collaboration.
In addition to her museum leadership, Professor McQuinn served as a lecturer at the University of Toronto for over 20 years, teaching courses on the archaeology of Egypt and the ancient Near East, Egyptian art, architecture, and religion, as well as thematic and interdisciplinary courses. These included explorations of mummification, gender and sexuality in ancient Egypt, and the re-evaluation of past archaeological narratives through scientific, racial, and decolonial theory lenses—courses that challenged assumptions and connected ancient stories to present-day perspectives.
“I’m honoured by the trust placed in me to help shape the next chapter of this extraordinary museum,” said Zoe. “The stories of service, innovation, and sacrifice embodied here are both humbling and inspiring.”
Her appointment comes at a pivotal moment for CATPM, as it revitalizes its historic site to enhance visitor experience, preserve its legacy, and ensure long-term sustainability.