No problem Randy, I just think it takes us back to when tech was being discovered at an amazing rate, when you think about it, man hasn't been flying much over 120 years or even less and look where we are. Bloodhound is either going to be a glorious failure or a resounding success and whatever the outcome, there will be something from the program which will be usable in the public domain.
As regards RAF engineers - they may be paid by MOD but it's part of a training curriculum quid pro quo..
From Wiki: The Bloodhound Project is first and foremost an education project designed to inspire future generations to take up careers in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) by showcasing these subjects in the most exciting way possible. The education programme covers all phases (ages) of education from primary through to secondary and further education, plus Bloodhound@University. Any school, teacher, youth group or home educated family in the world can register their details on the Bloodhound SSC website and download the free curriculum resource materials. Education institutions in the UK or South Africa can request a visit from a member of the Bloodhound education team or STEM Ambassador who will work alongside a teacher and deliver a presentation on the project. The Bloodhound education programme is also working with other STEM interventions and initiatives to ensure the Project reaches as many schools as possible. These include F1 in Schools (Bloodhound Class), the Smallpiece Trust, Primary Engineer, Science Made Simple and Young Engineers.