Canada is a huge venture, wish you all the best abroad!sure it be great craic.
Don't give up on the helicopter dream, so many people in their 30's get jobs in aviation.
Engineering wise looking at Civil/Mechanical not sure on what University?
looking at Dublin City University (DCU) Physics & Astronomy, plus it's walking distance form where I live.
UL do aeronautical engineering, you looking to study outside of Ireland?