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-108
3 Credits
Students develop hands-on experience with basic measuring instruments used by the A/E/C industry through lab and field activities. Students develop a methodology for recording field measurements that can be accurately converted into digital documentation. Students also develop the ability to interpret industry standard construction documentation produced by others.
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-199
1 - 5 Credits
The description for each Independent Study request will be specified in each student proposal.
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-240
3 Credits
Students develop CAD and BIM skills gained in previous courses by adding skills in design development. The project, a building of two or more stories, requires the synthesis of information and principles both from previous courses and from reference sources. Students will create a BIM project from preliminary drawings. Some design work will be required as students will incorporate information from building codes, specifications and data for mechanical, electrical and plumbing (MEP) services and structural systems.
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.
PRFN-102
3 Credits
This course introduces students to the technical and design processes of theatre, including scenery, costume, lighting, make-up, and prop craft. Students experience the range of skills needed to create successful productions, and identify their own areas of interest and strength for future theatre participation.