Conferring
Evelyn O’Toole Recognised at ATU’s Inaugural Alumni Awards as CLS Announces €9.9m Investment in Workforce Upskilling
Atlantic Technological University recognised Evelyn O’Toole, Founder and CEO of Complete Laboratory Solutions (CLS), with an Alumni Award in Science & Health as part of its inaugural Alumni Awards celebration.
Atlantic Technological University (ATU) recognised Evelyn O’Toole, Founder and CEO of Complete Laboratory Solutions (CLS), with an Alumni Award in Science & Health as part of its inaugural Alumni Awards celebration.
CLS revealed a major milestone for CLS — a €9.9 million investment in a sitewide upskilling programme that will support the company’s expansion into new markets such as semiconductors, engineering, and the green and coastal economy. The programme, supported by IDA Ireland, will see all CLS staff upskilled over the next two years as the company transitions into a multinational enterprise offering 360° quality and regulatory solutions. The announcement was made shortly after receiving her Alumni Award from ATU.
“It’s a tremendous honour to be recognised by my alma mater—it’s a full-circle moment that reminds me how far we’ve come. Today’s milestone for our company is a testament to the incredible team I have the privilege to work with every day. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved, and I’m even more excited for what lies ahead,” said Evelyn O’Toole, CEO of CLS.
Evelyn, a native of Clifden, Co Galway, was recognised for her exceptional contributions to science, business, and public health in Ireland. Since founding CLS in 1994, she has built the company into the highest accredited Irish-led contract laboratory, employing over 260 people and serving global leaders in the MedTech, Pharmaceutical, Environmental, and Food and Beverage industries.
Evelyn has also contributed significantly to the broader community, serving on the Irish Medtech Association Board and as a support centre committee member for Cancer Care West. She has received numerous accolades over the years, including an Honorary Fellowship from GMIT (2019), an Honorary Degree from NUI Galway (2020), and several prestigious awards such as the EY Industry Entrepreneur of the Year and Irish Tatler Businesswoman of the Year (2017).
She was among seven distinguished graduates recognised at the 2025 ATU Alumni Awards, which were presented during ATU’s Spring Conferring Ceremonies in Donegal, Sligo, and Galway Mayo campuses. The event celebrated some of the university’s most exceptional graduates whose leadership, impact, and commitment continue to inspire current and future students.
ATU President Dr Orla Flynn commented: “Evelyn O’Toole’s career exemplifies the values we hope to instil in all our students, a deep commitment to excellence, progress and the community around them. Her work in science and health has made a meaningful difference to industry and society, and we are proud to recognise her achievements as part of our first Alumni Awards.”
This inaugural event marked a milestone for ATU, establishing a tradition of celebrating the remarkable accomplishments of its alumni across all disciplines and industries.
