One of a series of curriculum guides prepared for the building occupations cluster of the construction/fabrication occupational group, this guide identifies the essentials of the heavy equipment trade as recommended by the successful heavy equipment operator. An instructional program based upon the implementation of the guide is expected to prepare a student to adequately perform entry level tasks required of a heavy equipment operator or to enter a post-secondary technical or apprenticeship program in heavy equipment where additional depth can be realized. Trade tasks or information are listed in chart form under the headings of safety, general competencies, general maintenance, utility equipment, on- and off-the-road trucks, hydraulic lift crane, motor scraper, track and rubber tired mounted crane, hydraulic backhoe, crawler tractor, fork lift, and motor grader. Space is provided on the charts to record for each item the date completed, teaching methods used, and teaching materials used. Also included are a list of teacher responsibilities, guidance information and sources of occupational information, recommended tests and references, and a chart depicting the total construction/fabrication occupational curriculum. A typical application for employment and a sample trade and industrial education injury report are appended. (HD)