A gradient coil assembly and a method for manufacturing the gradient coil assembly is provided. The gradient coil assembly includes a first tube extending along an axis including a first conductor. The assembly further includes a second tube disposed generally concentrically about the first tube wherein an inner space is defined between the first and second tubes. The second tube includes a second conductor. Finally, the assembly includes a fiber composite structure disposed in the inner space operatively associated with the first and second tubes to increase a stiffness of the assembly.