A method for assembling a compressor for use with a turbine is provided. The method includes coupling at least a first stator ring to a second stator ring via at least one fastener sized to extend through at least one stator ring opening. The method further includes coupling a shield assembly to at least one of the first stator ring and the second stator ring to facilitate reducing convection and aerodynamic bleed losses of the at least one stator ring. The shield assembly includes a downstream surface, a retaining portion, and a contoured upstream surface extending from the downstream surface to the retaining portion.