Armstrong began attending
Clarkson University in the fall of 1980. Clarkson made appearances in the
NCAA Tournament in each of Armstrong's first two seasons and, though he was a bit player as a freshman, Armstrong had a much more integral role in 1982. After several of the top players graduated that year, Clarkson declined in Armstrong's junior season. He was named
team captain for his senior year and the team rebounded. Armstrong led the defense in scoring and Clarkson finished third in the
ECAC Tournament, their best finish in over a decade. The team made its third national tournament with Armstrong before their defeat against
Minnesota–Duluth in the quarterfinals. Armstrong had scored with 61 seconds left but the team was unable to tie the series before time ran out. Armstrong's playing career ended upon his graduation. While working for Stearns & Wheeler as an engineer, Armstrong began coaching high school hockey and baseball. He was involved with several youth teams in the
Buffalo–Niagara Falls metropolitan area. Bob Armstrong was a registered Professional Engineer in the State of New York and became a partner at Stearns & Wheler. Robert was the project manager for the Gloversville - Johnston Wastewater Treatment Facilities Expansion Project. == Personal life ==