Long-Standing Champion for Disability Employment Unveils New Identity: Tessera

This article originally appeared on and was written for Kitsap Economic Development Alliance by Golden Shovel Agency.

Founded in the late 1980s in Kitsap County, WA, under the name Skookum, Tessera is rebranding itself, embarking on a significant evolution amid unwavering dedication to its purpose of "creating opportunities for people with disabilities.”

The rebrand is not cosmetic but represents a broader vision and reaffirmation of its foundational commitment as a social enterprise to creating employment for people with disabilities. It is a strategic clarification of the company's identity and reflecting its national presence.

“While we are a 501c3, we do not receive donations or charity,” said Jeff Dolven, President and CEO of Tessera. “As a social enterprise, we strive to earn the opportunity to serve these individuals and organizations."

Today and under its former name, Tessera has always sought to create jobs for people with disabilities. The company is not a charity; its revenue streams come from employing people to provide services across diverse business lines with the U.S. military, other federal agencies and some civilian clients.

Services include facility maintenance and management, encompassing janitorial services, grounds maintenance, and public works services for large military installations. It also handles logistics, warehousing, distribution and vehicle maintenance, including tactical vehicles at Joint Base Lewis-McChord. Additionally, Tessera owns an aerospace manufacturing company, further diversifying its portfolio and creating compelling jobs.

Clarity in rebrand

The rebrand was launched on March 17 from the former name of Skookum to Tessera, symbolizing how each individual's unique talents contribute to the organization as a whole. Dolven introduced the new name and discussed the rebrand in this video.

The process of choosing the new name was deliberate and extensive, designed to capture the organization’s essence. Tessera refers to an individual piece of glass, stone, or tile used in a mosaic, and the symbolic meaning is central to the organization’s identity.

“A Tessera is an individual mosaic piece," said Kelsey Kilen, Tessera’s Vice President of Communications and Marketing. “And like the individual piece that, with other individual pieces, makes a beautiful mosaic, our new name reflects how every individual has something to offer, regardless of their background or challenges, to utilize their unique gifts and talents for the greater good of their community and employer.”

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