If you take, by way of analogy, the verb fertilize (= make fertile) or civilize(..), it becomes plausible that utilize besides its overlap with use, has the special connotation of making useful. This is confirmed by MW: (utilize) "..may suggest the discovery of a new, profitable, or practical use for something <an old wooden bucket utilized as a planter>."

Furthermore, use has acquired in the course of history, I think, a somewhat mixed aura. So if you want to employ a cleaner word, take utilize until further notice ...