First off, who ever told you that the level of education required for the trade is university level was not accurate. The basic education requirement is technician level (preferably in some type of instrumentation/mechanical engineering field of study). Personally, I went through the NCSTTP route, where I basically spent two years in a community college (Cegep, for Francophones; and Marine Institute, for Anglophones). On completion of such course you will either get posted to CFB Halifax (CFNES) or CFB Esquimalt (CFFS(E)) to go onto common equipment courses followed by specific ship's class courses.
While I was in Cegep, you lived and studied among "civilians", we had to wear our uniforms to school, had ongoing drill classes and the like, but it surely was a great life experience. The courses given at those institution are tailored to whatever the military specified the technicians "should" be able to perform after a two years period of studies. Therefore, you might have civies in your classes, you might not. All depends which one have been tailored specifically just for the military crowd.
Conflicts are bound to happen, but if you are the "relaxed" type and you are there to focus on studying, you won't have to worry about such problems.
The support staff was composed of 1 PO1 NW Tech (taking care of the NWT's and NET(T)'s); 1 PO1 Stoker (Take care of Marine Engineers NCM); 1 LS (support admin); and 1LT(N) (detachment commander).
As long as you kept your head above the water, you did fine. As with any CF entry program, if you fail academics, then, the CF will give you a chance. If you fail intentionally, then you are on your own. Staff were there to ensure that we stayed within certain boundaries, but if you had your S... together, then no problems.
The course is currently given at Memorial University of Newfoundland in association with the Marine Institute. Don't get fouled tough, although studying at a university, the courses you would be doing are of the technician/technologist's level, not university...
NW Tech is a direct entry (from civi street) or can be entered through competition-based program for in-service members. If you are thinking of going the civi street way, I would look into subsidized education program for Naval Techs. That's the way I came in 12 years or so ago, and I think it was the best choice I could have made at that time.
Hope that helped you out, if you have more questions, feel free to ask, send me a private email even...
