Christopher Brucker Headshot

Christopher Brucker

Lecturer

Department of Engineering Studies
National Technical Institute for the Deaf

518-631-5264
Office Location

Christopher Brucker

Lecturer

Department of Engineering Studies
National Technical Institute for the Deaf

Education

AAS, Computer Aided Drafting Technology; BS, Applied Arts and Science; M. Arch, Rochester Institute of Technology

Bio

A passionate instructor with a Master of Architecture degree focusing on sustainability (obtained in December 2020), has a lifelong fascination with building and design. He leverages his expertise through teaching Computer Aided Drafting, Architecture, and Civil Technology courses, while his keen understanding of woodshop and safety protocols comes from extensive experience with building projects for the NTID Performing Arts department, where he often supervised and worked with students.

Chris's long-term aspirations involve accumulating further experience and acquiring an architecture license (AIA). Beyond his professional pursuits, he harbors a deep passion for technical theatre, and thrives on activities like cross-country roller coaster trips, hiking, mountain biking, bowling, racquetball, and Lego building.

518-631-5264

Personal Links

Select Scholarship

Dissertation/Thesis

Brucker, Christopher W. "DeafSpace™: Existing Buildings Adapted to Provide a More Optimal and Sustainable Environment" Diss. Rochester Institute of Technology, December 2020. Print.

Invited Keynote/Presentation

Brucker, Christopher W. "DeafSpace™: Provides a More Optimal and Sustainable Environment" Deaf in Department of Defense Research Symposium. United States Naval Research Laboratory. Washington DC. 10 November 2022. Symposium Presentation.

Brucker, Christopher W. and Rubin, Philip C. "DeafSpace™: Designing Deaf-Friendly Space" National Technical Institute for the Deaf 50th Reunion Conference. Rochester Institute of Technology. Rochester, NY. 29 June 2018. Conference Presentation.

Currently Teaching

NCAD-150
3 Credits
The objective of this course is to introduce students to engineering graphics as a means of communication in the technical fields of architecture, engineering and construction (A/E/C). The course is laboratory oriented and provides the student with basic skills to create professional 2D drawings with this comprehensive first course in the use of AutoCAD software for mechanical, architectural and civil drawings. The course assumes no prior knowledge of engineering drawing or CAD.
NCAD-170
3 Credits
The objective of this course is to learn the fundamental concepts of building information modeling (BIM) and how computer aided drafting (CAD) is used to produce basic construction documents. Students will learn to create a basic BIM project as well as learn basic AEC concepts and terms. Students will also develop effective time management skills and file management strategies.
NCAD-180
3 Credits
The objective of this course is to develop an understanding of drawings and practices used in the civil drafting field. Students engage in sketching exercises as well as use computer aided drafting tools to create plans and drawings for civil engineering projects. Students are introduced to mapping, surveying, GIS, plot plans, contour lines, highway layout, profiles and earthwork drawings. Students develop an understanding of the technical and legal purpose of these drawings and how to assemble them.
NCAD-220
3 Credits
The objective of this course is to learn how Building Information Modeling (BIM) can bring different disciplines together in a coordinated way to facilitate the design of a building. The course will build on the CAD skills learned in Construction CAD I to develop a more complex commercial BIM project that includes Architecture, MEP services and structural systems. Students will learn various AEC concepts and terms as well as how to organize a set of construction documents.
NCAD-265
3 Credits
This course is a continuation of the Construction Materials and Methods I course. Students learn standard technical vocabulary related to common construction materials, basic building science concepts related to thermal insulation and moisture protection, and various construction framing methods. Students will also learn the aesthetic, economic and performance characteristics of a wide variety of non-structural materials and finish products associated with the construction industry. Hands-on lab activities are used to learn how many common products are installed.
NCAD-275
3 Credits
In this course, students learn the basic concepts of loads and stresses and how the structural members of a construction project support and distribute loads. The overview includes the practical aspects of how structural elements as assembled and incorporated into construction projects and the influence of building codes on the selection of structural systems.
NCAD-285
3 Credits
Students learn to identify the basic components and operation of the mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) systems for a construction project. These systems include water supply, sanitary sewer and waste water treatment, storm drainage, solid waste handling, power supply generation, indoor climate control, lighting and communication systems. Students will learn the advantages of specifying sustainable solutions for these systems. Students will become acquainted with the graphic representation of these systems on construction documentation.