1. A system for assembling workpieces, the system comprising: a pallet for receiving incoming workpieces; a workpiece holder having a plurality of electromagnets; a handling robot configured to transport incoming workpieces from the pallet to the workpiece holder; and a controller in communication with the workpiece holder and the handling robot; wherein the controller is configured to determine an orientation of a workpiece positioned on the workpiece holder, and to selectively adjust an activation state of certain ones of the plurality of electromagnets of the workpiece holder based upon the orientation of the workpiece.