The present technology discloses methods for joining a first workpiece and a second workpiece through a heat stake, and products formed thereby. The first workpiece has an aperture configured to receive a stud positioned on a second workpiece. The system is formed by applying energy to the first workpiece using electrodes, which indirectly heats the stud, at least partially softening material of the stud. Pressure is then applied to the softened material of the stud, and causing the material to form according to a predetermined geometry. After pressure is released, the stud forms a stake forming an interlocked joint connecting the workpieces.