If you're tanking at level 80 here's your most basic, boiled down list of goals: 1. Run heroics as dps. Use this time to learn the pulls, watch the more experienced tanks!
2. Get a stupid f-ton of
Emblems of Triumph.
3. Buy the
tier-9 gear, available with the above.
4. Get to 540 Defense. Not rating, Defense.
5. Get the
highest median damage weapon(s) you can find. Do not use "tank" weapons with defensive stats on them.
6.
Gem stamina.
7. Run more heroics but now as a tank. Like, a LOT more heroics. Keep learning. Get better.
8. ...
9. Profit.
Bonus points for sending one of my toons a
gift.