Chris graduated from Iowa State University in 1983 with a Bachelor of Science in Agronomy. However, even before he graduated he was involved with the golf industry. From 1976-1983 he worked for the Wichita State University Golf Course, first in the pro shop and then in golf course maintenance. From 1980–1981 he worked in golf course maintenance for the Ames Country Club. After graduation, he would use this experience to begin working for Nicklaus Design as a Site Coordinator from 1984–1989. He has continued to work for Nicklaus Design and in 1989 became a Design Coordinator. Today, he serves as Senior Design Associate.