Master Corporal Triston Popescu

Snowbird 5A, Lead Avionics Systems Technician

Master Corporal (MCpl) Triston Popescu was born on October 11, 1995, in Toronto, Ontario, and grew up in the town of Ajax, Ontario, alongside his younger brother, Austin, and younger sister, Sierra. He attended Pickering High School, graduating in 2013, and later that summer, enrolled in the Royal Canadian Air Force in Scarborough, Ontario, as an Avionics Systems Technician. In the late summer of 2016, he transitioned trades and became a qualified Aviation Technician (AVN).

From a young age, while growing up in Ajax, Triston developed a deep fascination with military history, exploring topics from current armed conflicts to famous battles of the past, and studying the leaders who shaped those events. His passion led him to join the Navy League Cadet Corps, later progressing to the Sea Cadet program as he grew older. Through the cadet program, Triston gained valuable knowledge, skills, friendships, and a deeper understanding of military structure and ethos. With strong encouragement from his family, it felt natural for him to pursue a full-time career in the Canadian Armed Forces. His brother Austin would later follow a similar path, joining the Army as a Supply Technician with the 2nd Battalion, Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry (2 PPCLI).

MCpl Popescu is currently serving as a junior supervisor AVN Technician at 431 Air Demonstration Squadron (the Snowbirds) in Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan—his first posting since 2016. His role has provided him with significant domestic operational experience, supporting the squadron’s air demonstrations across North America. Triston was deployed with the Snowbirds from 2019 to 2021 as well as 2024. For the 2025 show season he is the Lead AVN technician. While on the road, he has led maintenance teams and performed critical servicing tasks, and has had the privilege of attending numerous public and media events.

Outside of his military career, Triston enjoys a variety of hobbies including modifying cars, hunting, fishing, camping, and playing both video and board games. Since his posting in Moose Jaw, he has developed a strong passion for the outdoors, particularly hunting and fishing.

Looking ahead, MCpl Popescu is committed to continuing his career in the Canadian Armed Forces. He aspires to further develop his leadership abilities and experience, with the ultimate goal of joining the senior leadership ranks within the military.