Abigail Robles excited to build sustainable career in mass timber and renovation
Photos and story by James Hill
PCC Vice President of Academic Affairs Jennifer Ernst presents Abigail Robles with her 2025 All-Oregon Academic Team award.
Hillsboro’s Abigail Robles is having quite the year.
After having been named to the 2025 All-Oregon Academic Team by the Oregon Community College Association, she has been accepted into the Oregon State University’s Forestry Center to pursue a bachelor’s degree in Wood Innovation for Sustainability with a particular interest in permaculture design. Robles is dual enrolled at PCC and OSU, and is on track to complete her Oregon Transfer Associate Degree by next winter term.?
“It was a nice hurrah and encouraging boost of all the work I’ve already done, so that was nice,” she said of the scholarship honor.
Her journey to higher education has been one of exploration and self-direction. After beginning her college experience at Southern Oregon University, Robles found her academic home at PCC. Originally homeschooled through most of her high school years due to multiple relocations (she’s lived in Peru and Mexico) and the pandemic, Robles found PCC’s hybrid learning model, combining in-person and remote classes, well-suited to her independent learning style.
Robles credits advising, orientation events and diverse course options for her success.
“Coming from the homeschool community, it was quite easy to transition to PCC,” Robles said. “I appreciated how I could still keep my own structure while benefiting from the college’s support systems.”
It was through PCC’s advisors, orientation events, and a wide array of class options that Robles discovered her passion for forestry and sustainable design. Her academic interests align with her long-term goal: to become an architectural engineer specializing in sustainable construction, particularly in mass timber. Already experienced in hands-on remodeling work on her family’s home, Robles is eager to apply innovative building techniques to future environmental challenges.
Her accomplishments extend beyond the classroom. This summer, she will compete in the National American Miss for Miss Oregon title, demonstrating her commitment to personal growth and civic engagement. She credits PCC’s supportive environment and staff, including math faculty member Bill O’Connell, for nurturing her academic journey.
“PCC’s tutoring center, advising, and even programs like the Panther Pantry and Environmental Center have been essential,” Robles said. “And, instructors here are deeply invested in both their subjects and their students.”
Robles, the middle of three siblings whom also attend PCC, offers this advice to future Panthers: “Focus on wellness and engagement. Use the resources available. They make a big difference.”
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »