A method for assembling an electric machine is provided. The method includes providing a rotor having a cavity formed therein. At least one contoured recess is formed in a portion of the cavity. A wedge is inserted into the cavity. The wedge includes at least one contoured protrusion that is configured to mirror the at least one contoured recess of the cavity. The wedge is inserted such that the at least one contoured protrusion is positioned within the at least one contoured recess to facilitate positioning the wedge within the cavity. The at least one contoured protrusion and the at least one contoured recess are shaped to facilitate minimizing stresses within the rotor and the wedge.