Opportunity arrives

Growing up in Edmonton, Alberta, Shona Mitchell always had her sights set on a career in music. Although her family had some military history, she never considered joining the military herself.

One day, a small poster caught her eye while walking back from a university music class. The Canadian Armed Forces’ Band of the Ceremonial Guard was recruiting musicians. Getting paid a good wage to play music for the summer was hard to pass up.

"In 1997, $6,000 for four months was a lot of money to get paid to play music."

There was only one requirement: she had to complete military basic training.

"How bad could it be?" she remembered thinking.

Challenging start

She joined the Army Reserves in 1997, completing basic training in Ottawa during an unusually cold spring. Instead of warm spring weather, recruits dealt with rain, ice and cold temperatures almost every day. Most recruits had only brought spring clothing.

It was a challenging start for Mitchell’s career.

"I remember being very cold for most of it. Very cold, very wet, and questioning my life decisions…wondering why on Earth I had done this."

Despite this, she completed training and joined the Ceremonial Guard Band. For two summers, she marched through the streets of Ottawa as part of one of the Forces’ most recognizable ceremonial organizations.

Although military training had been challenging, she felt exhilarated performing at the front of a parade in full ceremonial dress.

"The minute you step off, it’s amazing. For that time, it feels glorious."

Learning and teaching

In 1998, Mitchell’s summer job turned into full reserve service, as she returned to Edmonton and joined the Loyal Edmonton Regiment Band. Over the next 10 years, she took on new roles and learned new skills.

A flute player by trade, she embraced opportunities beyond her musical background. When given the chance to join the drumline, she accepted, despite having no formal percussion experience.

"There was somebody who was willing to train us, and I was willing to learn, so I played in the drumline for four years, which was super fun."

In 2000, Mitchell completed junior leadership training in Wainwright, Alberta. While the course was challenging, it helped her discover her greatest passion: teaching.

By the mid-2000s, she was teaching basic military qualification courses, helping shape new generations of CAF members. She enjoyed seeing recruits overcome obstacles, gain confidence, and discover their own potential.

"There is nothing like training a soldier. It’s indescribable."

Years later, she saw how much teaching can change people's lives. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she encountered three former students who had become instructors themselves. One approached her and asked a question.

"Did we make you proud?"

Her answer came without hesitation.

"You sure did."

Overcoming struggles

After moving to the Supplementary Reserve in 2008, Mitchell spent several years away from active service before returning to the Army Reserve in 2016.

Initially serving in an administrative role with The King’s Own Calgary Regiment, she later sought a new challenge by transferring to the Armoured Corps.

The transition was harder than she expected. She was required to be demoted from sergeant to corporal to complete her training. After completing her armoured reconnaissance qualification in 2021, she faced more challenges as she adapted to her new responsibilities.

A strong support network helped her to keep pushing forward. Her husband, himself a former reservist, provided encouragement, while trusted supervisors and friends offered guidance. With their help, she stayed focused on her goals.

That determination led to her completing her commander qualification in 2024, becoming the first female armoured sergeant in her unit’s history. As one of the few women in her unit, she led culture change during a time when the CAF was adopting new norms focused on diversity and inclusivity.

"It’s been a heck of a few years."

Continuing to serve

Today, Mitchell continues her work in the reserves, serving Canadians and honouring others who have served.

Remembrance is something that has special meaning for her, having taught many students over the years and seen friends deploy, some of whom did not return.

"It’s more modern for me, because I trained people who went to Afghanistan, and so that to me is a really important piece of it."

She continues to mentor future leaders, proving that hard work can help you overcome even the most difficult obstacles.

"Keep going. It’s worth it."

Nearly 30 years after joining what she thought would be a summer job, she remains dedicated to a life of service. Her story shows how one person can make a difference and inspire others.

With courage, integrity, and loyalty, Shona Mitchell is leaving her mark. She is one of our Canadian Armed Forces members. Discover more stories.