A method of assembling a stator assembly includes coupling at least one stator ring segment to a portion of a casing using at least one circumferential stator ring groove defined in the casing. The method also includes coupling at least one stator blade assembly to a portion of the stator ring segment such that at least one radial passage is at least partially defined by at least one of the stator blade assembly and the stator ring segment. The stator assembly includes at least one first radial passage defined within a portion of the stator ring segment. The assembly also includes at least one second radial passage coupled in flow communication with the first radial passage. The second radial passage is at least partially adjacent to at least one of a portion of the stator blade assembly and a portion of the stator ring segment.