A dual stage blower assembly includes a first fan configured to rotate about the rotational axis and including a first plurality blades. The first plurality of blades include a plurality of backward curved blades. The dual stage blower assembly also includes a second fan circumscribing the first fan and configured to rotate about the rotational axis. The second fan includes a second plurality of blades, wherein the second plurality of blades include one of a plurality of forward curved blades, a plurality of a radial blades, or a plurality of backward curved blades. At least one motor is coupled to the first fan and the second fan and configured to rotate the first fan and the second fan about the rotational axis.