Our Story

Our story begins over 35 years ago when 3coast began as Robert Shields & Associates. Since 1980, our company has been dedicated to helping Houston-area companies solve business pain and drive growth through top talent.

We focus on providing IT staffing services. Through a shared vision, we strive to attain excellence in all we do while championing growth, high standards and innovation.

Our goal is to create raving fans through genuine relationships with our clients and partners. Through continuous innovation, superstar employees and superior customer service, we commit to continuously improving our services and expertise to meet the demands of business.

Our IT Services and Managed Service Provider (MSP) business, which was founded in 1999, spun out as a subsidiary in 2016, and acquired by management in 2017, can be found at www.uprite.com.

Our Corporate Values

  • Loyalty, from our associates and to our associates
  • Creativity, in the execution of our tasks
  • Initiative, never failing to support those who take it
  • Excellence, always bringing extra value to our customers
  • Responsibility and Integrity, for everything we do and for the success of each client’s business

Our Mission

To build lasting partnerships with clients by anticipating their needs and delivering innovative and differentiated staffing solutions that drive business results.

To foster a values-based culture where business success brings both personal and professional satisfaction, and people connect with each other in meaningful ways.

To provide reward and recognition to employees for their contributions.

Our History

Robert Shields & Associates was founded in 1980 as a search and staffing firm serving the greater Houston and Galveston areas. In 1996, after the death of Robert Shields, George F. Black became the new president and CEO. Black committed to preserving the legacy of his predecessor and his dedication to growth.

Our experience and innovation has rewarded us with the following industry distinguishments

Largest Houston-Area Permanent Placement Firms (2008)
Largest Houston-Area Technology Employers (2012, 2008)
Top 40 Firms, NPA Worldwide (2008)
Inc. 5000 (2007)
FastTech 50 (2012, 2007, 2006, 2005)
Houston Fast 100 (2007)
Houston Top 25 Largest Placement Firms (2006)
Houston Top 100 Small Business (2005)