The only way I'm aware of to get status and not have it go away over time is to fly over a million miles on some airlines like DL, UA, and AA. They'll then give you their lowest teir of status "for life."

These programs differ - UA and DL are actual butt-in-seat miles while AA counts all miles earned via any source.

The only program I know of that has a status period longer than one year is LH - where the Miles and More program gives status for two year periods. There may be others, however.