A method of joining parts together with a flow drill screw or with a clinch joint. A first part formed of metal or a composite material is joined to a second part that includes a fiber-filled layer and a resin matrix layer. The flow drill screw extends through the first part and the second part into the second part. The resin matrix layer prevents fibers from the fiber filled layer from being forced through the back of the second panel. A clinch joint may be formed into the first part and the second part but does not penetrate completely through the resin matrix layer. When the clinch joint is formed, the resin matrix layer inhibits the fiber filled layer from pushing through the second layer of the second panel.