A TEENAGER who devised innovative new software has won a prestigious national accolade.

Ryan Kenny, 18, from Murdishaw in Runcorn, has been named BTEC apprentice of the year.

An expert panel of 52 judges chose the enterprising software developer because of his hard work and dedication.

Ryan said: “When I found out I was blown away. I just see myself doing what I love, truly living my dream and to find out that I had been recognised, it’s been phenomenal.”

Ryan enrolled on an IT software, web and telecoms apprenticeship with Stanley Black and Decker through Warrington and Vale Royal College.

He went on to create a cutting edge digital solution to meet the needs of Stanley’s business.

Ryan’s incredible success comes less than three years after first walking through the company's doors as part of a high school work placement.

He soon wowed his employers, with Stanley’s manufacturing continuous improvement manager, Russell Lodge, seeing the potential in him.

Mr Lodge said: "Ryan has developed at an astonishing pace where he has extended his IT software and development skills and a solid understanding of multiple aspects of the business.

"Ryan has displayed what a young student can achieve with hard work, support and commitment.

"He looks to be key in the system's implementation both in the USA and Europe in the future."

Ryan’s training and succession software Centurion –tracks staff development, alerting management ahead of time when they need to puts plans in place to replace staff.

He is now travelling the world implementing the software as part of the European business services team, having been promoted to business systems analyst.

He has already visited Miami, where he demonstrated the system to Stanley Black & Decker’s senior management, as well as receiving $10,000 in Stanley shares in recognition of his hard work.

Ryan added: “Choosing to do a BTEC apprenticeship has been massive in getting me to where I am today.

"An apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to get experience in the workplace whilst also gaining the theoretical knowledge in the classroom, which you can then go and apply in your workplace.

“People have told me that I need to slow down a little bit, that I’ll burn out, but I just want to keep going. In 10 years’ time, I’d like to be pushing the boundaries of digital excellence."

Ryan was nominated for the BTEC apprentice of the year by his college assessor Lisa Spencer, who described Ryan as one of the greatest students she has ever had.

Tim Evans, curriculum manager for IT at Warrington & Vale Royal College, added: “The achievement that Ryan has made is testament not only to himself but also to the team and the hard work and effort that we’ve all put in collectively. Winning this award will have a huge impact on his future.”

Nichola Newton, principal and chief executive of the college, said: “We are very proud of Ryan – he exemplifies the very best of what apprentices can do.”