Download Our Agency vCard Here
Agency Overview
Kirk Chester, a proud Idaho native, moved to Utah in 1997 to attend Westminster College and enjoy the ski slopes—though which was the priority remains up for debate! After graduating with a Bachelor's degree in Business and Economics, Kirk launched his career in the insurance industry, starting in life insurance and investments.
In 2004, Kirk joined Farmers Insurance through the scratch agency program, where he successfully built and managed his own franchise. In 2011, after years of success, he sold the franchise back to Farmers and transitioned into independent agency ownership.
From 2011 to 2013, Kirk was a principal owner of InsurePro before founding Ark Insurance Solutions. In 2017, his agency underwent a rebranding to become GRIT Insurance Group, which now serves blue-collar industries from offices in Utah and Idaho. That same year, Kirk expanded by acquiring Challis Insurance in Challis, ID.
Kirk holds the Certified Insurance Counselor (CIC) designation and serves as the Principal of GRIT Insurance Group. His agency specializes in providing tailored risk management solutions to blue-collar industries like construction, manufacturing, and auto services.
Beyond his professional achievements, Kirk is actively involved in the community. He serves on multiple boards, including the Utah Division of Outdoor Recreation Off-Highway Vehicle Grants and Planning Board, the Utah Snowmobile Association Board of Directors, the Utah Independent Agents Association Board of Directors, and the Utah Avalanche Center Board of Directors.
Kirk resides in Cottonwood Heights, Utah, with his wife and two children. His daughter is deeply involved in competitive cheer, while his son competes in baseball. Much of Kirk's time is dedicated to supporting his family in these pursuits. When he's not cheering them on, he enjoys snowmobiling, camping, hiking, fishing, and spending time outdoors.
Originally from the town of Bountiful, Utah, Justin Peterson is a dedicated father to his three wonderful daughters. His love for his children is the cornerstone of his life, inspiring everything he does. In his free time, Justin enjoys outdoor activities like skiing, hiking, and connecting with nature. He also has a passion for reading and cooking, but above all, he values the rewarding role of fatherhood.
Justin graduated from the University of Utah in 2003 with a double major in Marketing and Finance, launching him into a successful career in the insurance industry. With over 20 years of experience, Justin now serves as the Operations Manager at GRIT Insurance Group. In this capacity, he oversees the team’s efforts to deliver top-notch service to existing clients while warmly welcoming new ones and seamlessly integrating them into the GRIT family.
Justin’s true passion lies in Commercial Insurance, where he thrives on helping business owners protect the enterprises they’ve worked so hard to build. His deep knowledge of risk management and his commitment to client success make him a key asset to the team at GRIT Insurance Group.
No one knows how to stay busy like Terrill Swain! A proud mother of three amazing children and a devoted Nana to two sweet grandchildren, Terrill is always on the move. As an avid outdoors enthusiast, her family is constantly engaged in activities like playing sports, hunting, fishing, and camping. She’s also an active member of the High School Booster Club, balancing family life with a deep commitment to her community.
With such a busy and active lifestyle, Terrill understands firsthand the importance of insurance and the need to protect what matters most. Whether it's safeguarding your home, ensuring your business is covered, or planning for the unexpected, Terrill is here to offer professional advice and support for all your insurance needs. Her passion is not only in protecting her own family but also in helping others find the right solutions to protect theirs.
Born and raised in Idaho, Jessica has traveled extensively throughout the country and even abroad, but she always knew Idaho was the place she wanted to call home. As a mother of three, Jessica is deeply rooted in her community and couldn’t imagine raising her family anywhere else. Her diverse work background includes experience in law enforcement and banking, both of which have honed her skills in communication and customer service.
Jessica’s passion for helping people aligns perfectly with her role in the insurance industry. With a commitment to providing exceptional customer service, her goal is to become highly knowledgeable in insurance products so she can assist clients in finding the perfect solutions to meet their needs.
Outside of work, Jessica enjoys a variety of activities that reflect her love for creativity and the outdoors. Her personal interests include drawing, watercolor painting, hunting, fishing, camping, and working with livestock on her property. She has a special passion for upcycling and enjoys restoring vintage travel trailers and giving new life to forgotten treasures.
Jessica’s children are the center of her world, and much of her time is spent teaching them the values of responsibility and care through working with livestock and pets on their family property.
Syrena came to the GRIT Insurance Group team, bringing with her a strong background in bookkeeping and accounting. Coming from a farm family, Syrena understands the importance of hard work, attention to detail, and the value of managing finances efficiently.
When she’s not hard at work supporting the team, Syrena enjoys spending quality time with her family and caring for her beloved pets.
With a passion for precision and detail, Ahsan brings a methodical approach to the insurance industry, ensuring that every client's needs are thoroughly met. Their role as a Commercial Lines Specialist allows them to combine technical expertise with a genuine desire to help businesses protect their assets.
Outside of work, Ahsan enjoys an active lifestyle, playing soccer and cricket, and unwinding with thriller shows on Netflix. This balance of physical activity and relaxation keeps them energized and focused, traits they bring into their professional life.
Born in Bountiful, UT, and raised in Denver and Omaha, Chris Harrison brings a wealth of diverse experiences to the GRIT Insurance Group team. A 2008 graduate of Brigham Young University, Chris has been a licensed insurance agent for the past three years, specializing in Business, Health, and Life insurance. He is passionate about helping clients find customized insurance plans that meet their needs while staying within their budget.
When Chris isn’t assisting clients with their insurance needs, he enjoys spending time with his family in the mountains, camping, and exploring the outdoors. He’s also an avid sports fan, always keeping up with the latest games and events.
Easton, originally from Riverton, Utah, is a proud father to his daughter, Arya. When he's not working, you’ll find him embracing the great outdoors through activities like rock climbing, hiking, hunting, and camping. He’s also passionate about music, performing at local venues, and enjoys woodworking, crafting custom furniture.
Easton's journey started at 18 when he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he served as a structural mechanic on aircraft for six years. After his military service, Easton transitioned into the insurance industry, obtaining his license and working as a Sales Manager at American Family Insurance. There, he managed new business for personal and commercial clients.
Now part of the team at Grit Insurance Group, Easton plays a key role in ensuring exceptional service to existing clients while welcoming new ones into the Grit family. His focus is on educating clients and building long-term relationships tailored to the needs of individuals and businesses.