An electronic system includes a chassis. The chassis includes a first endwall, a second endwall, and a sidewall. The electronic system also includes at least one circuit card cartridge coupled to the chassis. The at least one circuit card cartridge is positioned between the first endwall and the second endwall. The at least one circuit card cartridge includes a printed circuit board including a first surface and at least one electronic component. The at least one electronic component is mounted on the first surface. The at least one circuit card cartridge further includes at least one heat transfer assembly coupled to the printed circuit board. The at least one heat transfer assembly is configured to contact the at least one electronic component and extend adjacent the printed circuit board across the first surface.