In the Spotlight | Christopher Utt
In our mission to support Central Cass students in the arts, our “In the Spotlight” series aims to showcase alumni deserving recognition.
Christopher Utt | Central Cass Class of 2017
Architectural Designer - Minneapolis, MN
Christopher Utt, 2017 CCHS alum, is thankful for the friendships and skills he developed from being involved in the school newspaper, art, architectural drafting and construction classes in high school. He had classmates and teachers that supported him and pushed him to be better each day.
Fast forward a few years—Christopher is an Architectural Designer at Brunton Architects and Engineers in Minneapolis. He is an Associate AIA member and has received his LEED Green Associate credential. Chris will earn an architecture license upon the completion of 3,740 hours of experience and successfully passing six exams.
Christopher has been involved in over 40 projects across 17 states in the nearly two years of his employment with Brunton Architects & Engineers. The first project he was a part of from start to finish is his company’s new office in Minneapolis. His firm does any project type, but the most common ones he has designed include clinics, fire stations, city halls, offices and tribal projects.
According to Chris, “The field of architecture is a creative one, and no two projects are ever the same. The building designs that I create can be categorized as visual arts in the designing mode and final product. I use art skills when drawing plans, designing components for the building and preparing presentations to market the project.”
“The building designs that I create can be categorized as visual arts in the designing mode and final product. I use art skills when drawing plans, designing components for the building and preparing presentations to market the project.”
Christopher further explained, “When designing a project, we make an effort to incorporate elements that are unique to the client’s culture, history, and traditions. Brunton Architects & Engineers work with several tribal nations, and creating buildings that honor and share their culture is a primary focus.”
Utt described the architecture process as an art of telling a story through design. “It begins with listening to the client and honing in on what their wants and needs are.” The vision is communicated through a series of 2D drawings, plans and elevations, and through 3D rendered images and videos. The final step in the process is the construction of the building. Once completed, the built environment is forever changed, and the design becomes a part of the story of that location.”
Chris graduated from NDSU in 2021 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Architecture and earned a Master of Architecture degree in 2022. The summer after his 4th year of college and through grad school, he interned at ICON Architectural Group in Grand Forks. He worked on a number of projects, including the design of two new UND dorms and a weight room remodel in the Ralph Engelstad Arena.
“Find others who are passionate about it, and you will be surrounded by people that support and motivate you.”
Reflecting upon Chris’s personal experiences and successes, he has words of wisdom for students—“If there is something that you enjoy and are passionate about, don't stop. It may not always be easy, but when you are able to do something you love, it doesn't feel like work. Find others who are passionate about it, and you will be surrounded by people that support and motivate you.”
Thanks for sharing your story, Chris!
“In the Spotlight” features Central Cass alum who have excelled in the arts. Do you know a squirrel deserving recognition? Nominate them here!
