Guidelines for designing, implementing, and conducting occupational exploration programs for grades 7-9 are contained in this document, which was developed for use with public schools in North Carolina. Discussion covers the philosophy of occupational exploration, mission statement, continuing objectives for grades 7-9, program description of occupational exploration, program scope, exploratory laboratory description and sequencing, staff size and scheduling, facilities, equipment, teaching materials and supplies, information on the Career Exploration Clubs of America, strategies for implementing an occupational exploration program, recommended personal characteristics and competencies of staff, and guidelines for teacher certification and program evaluation. Appendixes, which make up the greater portion of the document, are intended to aid local units in designing inservice programs, arranging various laboratories for exploratory programs, purchasing equipment, selecting supplies and teaching materials, and developing instructional material. Each laboratory is described outlining some possible occupational cluster combinations. Equipment and materials lists are provided to assist in purchasing those most appropriate for exploratory experiences. Each laboratory has an instructional prototype for individualizing instruction. The appendixes are titled as follows: Proposal for Inservice Education, Business and Office Occupations, Environmental Occupations, Service Occupations, Occupational Information Center, and General Information. (TA)