An electromagnetic machine for generating force is provided. The electromagnetic machine includes a magnet having opposing sides extending along a longitudinal axis. The electromagnetic machine includes a pair of ferromagnetic bodies respectively extending along the opposing sides of the magnet, and along the longitudinal axis, each of the ferromagnetic bodies comprising: a back-iron portion; and a pole portion extending from the back-iron portion. The magnet and the ferromagnetic bodies include reciprocal retention devices at the opposing sides along the longitudinal axis. The electromagnetic machine includes electrical windings around respective pole portions of the ferromagnetic bodies, the electrical windings around the respective pole portions being independently controllable. The electromagnetic machine includes at least one cold plate configured to thermally isolate the magnet from the electrical windings.