About 20 years ago, I watched two multi-episode documentaries on public television that I continue to appreciate to this day.

One was about the building of a skyscraper in New York City, One Worldwide Plaza. It introduced viewers to an architect named David Childs. In the years that followed, I would come across his name and think "Hey, I know that guy."

Childs is the designer behind the tower going up at the 9/11 site. When I read his quotes or see him interviewed, I feel like I have some context in assessing the man.

The other series was about the development of the Boeing 777. Alan Mulally, then an executive with the airplane manufacturer, was prominent.

For several years now, he has been the CEO of Ford. And as the American auto industry has gone through its recent turmoil, he has been in the news right and left.

Again, because of the 777 series, he is not a stranger to me.

Thanks, PBS. 

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