About Us
At Empath Lab Solutions, we combine 20 years of hands-on laboratory experience with a passion for precision, compliance, and operational excellence. Our leadership has served in senior roles — from director to associate director — guiding laboratories through the complexities of clinical diagnostics, quality systems, and regulatory requirements.
We understand the unique challenges labs face: tight timelines, evolving regulations, and the need for flawless execution. That’s why we partner with you to streamline workflows, strengthen compliance, and prepare you for seamless inspections.
Our Mission: To empower laboratories with the expertise, tools, and strategies they need to operate efficiently, meet regulatory standards, and deliver reliable patient results.
Our Values:
- Integrity – We do what’s right, always.
- Precision – Accuracy is not optional.
- Partnership – Your success is our success.
- Innovation – We adapt and improve to keep you ahead.
Founding Partners
Kirk Lum
With over 20 years of experience in clinical laboratory science, Kirk Lum has led teams through every stage of laboratory operations—from assay development and workflow optimization to regulatory compliance and audit readiness. His career spans leadership roles in hospital, research, and high-volume commercial labs, where he has built laboratories from the ground up, doubled team sizes, implemented cutting-edge testing platforms, and guided facilities to achieve CAP, CLIA, and state accreditation. Known for blending technical expertise with strategic management, Kirk specializes in turning complex laboratory challenges into efficient, scalable solutions that improve quality, productivity, and readiness for any inspection.
Jackie Valles
Jackie is a Clinical Supervisor and Clinical Genetic Molecular Biologist Scientist (CGMBS) with a strong track record in laboratory leadership, quality assurance, and advanced molecular diagnostics. She has extensive experience in managing Quality Management Systems (QMS), preparing laboratories for CAP inspections, and serving as a CAP inspector. Jackie’s expertise spans pharmacogenomics, microarray, next-generation sequencing (NGS), SNaPshot, RT-PCR, and infectious disease testing, including SARS-CoV-2. Her career includes guiding laboratories to successful CAP accreditation, developing and improving SOPs, and implementing quality improvement processes that enhance compliance, accuracy, and operational excellence.