Goudie...I think your memory serves you well because I seem to recall the same, although I think it was short-lived.
I started on the 3rd entry of the established Air Eng program that I posted about, but I cannot recall which year that was....so long ago. I'm thinking around 1960.
Anyone else remember this, or was recruited as a short-tour Air Eng?
btw I do recall, when doing the Air Eng course, there was a requirement for NCO helicopter pilots. I applied but was told I needed to complete my current course first...I think I lost enthusiasm later.