Arlene Tinunas is the proud owner of WAC Consulting and works with her husband Wade Watts, who is the operations manager. These two know what it takes to run a business, as Watts is the successful founder and owner of WFSI Wheelchair Friendly Solutions Incorporated. WFSI works across Canada, and multiple other countries to make accessibility a standard worldwide. In 2014, Watts was involved in an accident in the Philippines and was diagnosed with Prime Progressive MS, which left him facing life in a wheelchair. The accident made Watts quickly realize, “The DISABILITY wasn’t the problem – The ACESSIBILITY was the problem”, and the idea of WAC Consulting emerged. Tinunas is active and knowledgeable in the field of accessibility, and is excited to take on this latest project; diving into the multiple uses of drones/UAV’s (Unmanned Ariel Vehicle) to create inclusivity.
WAC Consulting offers professional drone videography or photography for the use of accessibility audits, inspections, real estate viewings, tourism, cinematic, search and rescue, construction and corporate information. Tinunas and Watts created this innovative idea to provide inclusivity for all, and erase some of the barriers faced by those in wheelchairs. Watts began flying drones, UAV’s and R/C Aircrafts over seven years ago, and has conducted many outdoor public space accessibility audits across Canada for a variety of clients. “Drones became an integral part of my story, being a wheelchair user myself,” says Watts. “This was the only way to gain access to areas I was required to audit.” From this, Watts and Tinunas decided to offer a wide range of drone services with the absolute best and most advanced drones, cameras and gimbal systems on the planet. “This is a fresh approach to accessibility,” says Tinunas. “It is important to us that we offer this accessible option, as it puts us one step closer to an inclusive world for everyone.”
By using this service, clients will get professional quality video/ photography for their purpose, as well as additional consulting from Watts and Tinunas. The consulting aspect helps clients develop multi-year accessibility plans, advanced accessibility training, and cost effective solutions for inclusivity. Some of their clients include the Government of Canada, Parks Canada, Ontario Parks, Bridge & Dam Inspectors, Real Estate Companies and Wind, Solar & Tower Installations. WAC Consulting with Watts and Tinunas are TCCA (Transport Canada Civil Aviation) licensed and certified for advanced commercial UAV/drone use with SFOC (Special Flight Operations Certification). This allows WAC Consulting with the cooperation of 8WATCOPS (8 Wing Air Traffic Control Operations) to fly anywhere in the Bay of Quinte area including restricted airspace with 48 hours’ notice.
Tinunas and Watts are thrilled to begin this business endeavor together as a team, and can be reached by phone at 613-242-6069 or by email at wwatts0940@gmail.com. Clients are encouraged to reach out if they have any additional questions or inquiries about the business.
