Chris Schutze has been with Cates Engineering since February of 1996. He is a graduate of Old Dominion University with a BS degree in Engineering Technology, and also holds an Applied Science degree in Engineering Technology, and a specialization in Architectural Drafting & Design. While earning these degrees, Chris had the opportunity to gain knowledge and experience in almost every aspect of the engineering, architectural & construction industry.
These opportunities arose while working with the Engineering Department of Farm Fresh, Inc. during the construction and renovation of several stores and also while working as a Draftsman and Engineer with an architectural firm in Norfolk, Virginia. His degree and work experience have allowed him the knowledge and skills to design projects that are economical, up to date with current construction techniques and coordinated with the many aspects and various trades involved in designing a project.
Chris Schutze and Brian Cates (Principal), have been acquaintances since the early 90’s and after graduating in 1995, Chris was invited to join the company as a design engineer. At Cates, Chris has had the opportunity to prove his abilities as an engineer and to obtain a great variety of design experience. Within the first year Chris was promoted to Project Engineer/Manager and was responsible for the design and coordination of numerous residential, commercial, industrial and institutional projects and was exposed to all types of building systems and materials. Today, with his experience and proven abilities, Chris is now a Senior Engineer, with responsibilities that include designing and coordinating several projects in addition to overseeing projects and tasks delegated to junior engineers and drafters.