Joel A. Bartsch joined the Houston Museum of Natural Science in 1988 and continues to drive operations as president and CEO. Over the course of his time in this role, he has restructured the museum’s program from the ground up, helping the organization achieve profitability. Joel Bartsch's responsibilities in his leadership role with the museum mainly involve collaborating with the board to develop short and long-term strategies, though he also functions as a museum spokesperson, among other duties.

Previously, Joel A. Bartsch spent 13 years as the museum curator, director of earth sciences, and project manager. He also held similar roles with the California State Mining and Mineral Museum in Mariposa and Hilo, Hawaii’s Lyman House Memorial Museum.

Mr. Bartsch studied history and the history of science at Rice University in Houston, graduating with his master of arts in 2003. He also holds a bachelor of arts in seminary studies from Concordia University. In addition to his professional museum roles, he has served as chairman of the Houston Museum District Association.