Abstract: A method of altering characteristics of a workpiece comprising electrically conductive material includes exposing the workpiece to a magnetic field and exposing the workpiece to an induction field configured to cause heating current to flow through only a selected portion of the workpiece while the workpiece is exposed to the magnetic field. The induction field has a frequency such that the selected portion is less than the entire body of the workpiece or substantially only the outer surface of the workpiece. The method of altering characteristics of a workpiece may further include heating the entire body of the workpiece to a first temperature while the workpiece is exposed to the magnetic field and before exposing the workpiece to the induction field. The method of altering characteristics of a workpiece may further include quenching and tempering the workpiece in the magnetic field.