Tom Catalano

Animator & Illustrator

About Me

Hello, I’m Tom!  I am a versatile animator/illustrator who focuses on fun cartoony styles.

I specialize in 2D animation, with a focus in both studio environments and video game development. My expertise lies in conceptualizing and bringing creative ideas to life across various media platforms, ensuring that each project is executed with precision and artistic vision.

I graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology with a Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in 2D Animation. During my time at RIT, I had the opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, including films, promotional campaigns, merchandise design, and game jams.  Notably, I was employed with the College Activities Board, an organization that plans and executes events for the student body, where I contributed my skills in colorful and poppy design to enhance their outreach and visual communications. 

On a more personal note, I am an enjoyer of all things outdoors.  On my free time you will find me planning my next backpacking trip, rowing, or biking.  I also enjoy playing a multitude of instruments, if that guitar, bass, or banjo!  I am always one to try something new, even if it results in failure.

I currently reside in Pittsburgh, PA, but I am willing and able to relocate as needed. 

Outdoor Blog

The only thing that really matters.

Underneath are a multitude of adventures I have been on, always eager to explore more of this world.  The outdoors to me is both an opportunity to enjoy time with friends and to get away for oneself.  I push to challenge myself with every expedition, always surprising myself along the way.

The plushie you see on the right is Quesadilla, the banana duck.  He is the best companion/sleeping pillow one could ask for.  And for that he joins me on every trip.

Click the mountain icon to see my AllTrails recordings.

Dolly Sods Loop

Dolly Sods Wilderness, WV

November 12th, 2025

Dolly Sods was the first winter backpacking trip I have done, with encounters of waist high snow and knee deep water crossings.  The trip was planned to me a 3 day 2 night trip, but luckily we were able to finish up in 2 days!  Last trip of 2025!

Highest Point PA

Mt. Davis, PA

June 16th, 2025

This is the 3rd highest point I have climbed to.  The hike was a simple quiet hike with a large watch tower to climb up at the peak.  There was a great variety of informational tablets explaining the history of the area and a map show the relativity of the spot in PA!

Highest Point MD

Hoye Crest, MD

June 16th, 2025

This is the 2nd highest point I have climbed to.  Funny enough with this hike we had to start in West Virginia and cross over into Maryland to hit the peak.  The day was sadly rainy, leading to most of the trail being mud.  My running shoes did not appreciate the weather conditions.   Overall a longer hike that has a log book for everyone who crosses the Hoye Crest sign.

GAP + C&O Bike Trail

Pittsburgh, PA – Washington D.C

July 20 – 28th, 2025

This 335 mile bike trip took us about 5 1/2 days to complete, being the first time I’ve ever done a trip like this.  We camped outside ever night and took advantage of all the Sheetz we passed.  One of my favorite experiences I’ve been on so far, with so much to see in the 3 states we passed through.  I would recommend the GAP trail over the C&O, more to see and a better maintained trail.  Definitely want to trip this trip again!

Mt. Marcy, Skylight, Haystack Trail

Lake Placid, NY

Oct 10 – 12th, 2024

My first highest point and multi day backpacking trip!  This trip was a struggle with the verticality of the mountains and the varying weather in the 3 days out there, but it was all worth it.  The sights were no less than astonishing and looking beyond the peaks was absolutely surreal.  With all the hurdles we ran to on this trip, I can say I have never been pushed as hard as this trail had.  Definitely worth the trip, would recommend hiking late/summer early fall to hopefully miss bad weather.

Allegheny National Park Trail

Allegheny National Park, PA

May 12 -14th, 2024

My first backpacking trip that started it all.  My hometown friends decided to try a backpacking trip to see how we liked it and it turned out to be a great experience.  Sadly the trail was quite muddy and I had decided that I was too good for a sleeping bag.  Which resulted in one of the worst nights of sleep I have ever endured, with allergies make it near impossible to breathe.  But they say hard times make stronger men, I think.  Great trip, obviously left a lasting impact.