Transferring points to CO won't help you get status.

Status is earned by Elite Qualification Miles (EQM's), and what you're talking about are Redeemable Miles (RDM's). No transfers into CO (Marriott, Chase, formerly AMEX) count as EQM's.

The only way to get EQM's is to fly or thru select credit cards.

Oh, and welcome to FT!