A vane stage includes an arcuate platform defining a axial centerline axis having a pair of flanges that extend radially inward from the platform. The flanges are axially spaced from one another and from respective forward and aft ends of the platform. The vane stage includes a vane extending radially outward from the platform and a seal carrier mounted to the flanges of the platform. A method for constructing a vane stage includes sliding a seal carrier between flanges of an arcuate platform. Each flange includes at least a pair of through holes and interfaces with a respective axial side of the seal carrier. The method includes drilling through holes in each axial side of the seal carrier by using the through holes of each flange as guides.