An electric motor includes a motor enclosure, a motor-bearing assembly, a motor control unit, a mid shield, and a bearing. The motor-bearing assembly is configured for placement within the motor enclosure and has a shaft extending therefrom. A portion of the motor control unit is configured for placement within the motor enclosure. The mid shield is configured for placement within the motor enclosure between the motor control unit and the motor-bearing assembly and further configured to engage the shaft. The bearing is configured to seat within the mid shield and provide at least a portion of the engagement between the shaft and the mid shield.