A gap year student working for Telford-based GKN Auto-Structures has won the prestigious 2006 Year in Industry Contribution to Business Award, sponsored by EEF West Midlands.
Alex Packard, aged 18, was presented with the award and a cheque for £500 by Barrie Williams, deputy president of EEF West Midlands, and will now represent the region at the UK final in September.
During his time with GKN AutoStructures, Alex was responsible for the Ford service account.
His challenge was to update documentation relating to the packaging of parts. He also created new ways to pack parts.
The former pupil from King Edward VI School in Stratford-Upon-Avon said: "I'm thrilled to win this award.
"The placement has shown me how valuable 'real world' experience is. The feeling of independence generated, coupled with the responsibility given to me, have gone a long way to developing me as an adult. It was a truly worthwhile experience."
